The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, has denied banning peaceful rallies anywhere in the country, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, noting that “Peaceful Public protest/procession is an integral part of democratic norms in as
much as it conforms with the rule of law and public order.”
The police recently came under heavy criticism for trying to stop #BringBackOurGirls, BBOG campaigners who are demanding government do more to free the Chibok schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram. Apart from members of the advocacy group, others like Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka and human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, also condemned the action of the police.
In a statement issued late Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, FPRO, Don Awunah, the Police said it recognized the impacts of peaceful protests in a democracy and would not jeopardise the rights of Nigerians.
“Inspector-General of Police, IGP Ibrahim Idris wishes to state categorically that at no time did Nigeria Police Force place a ban on peaceful public protest/procession anywhere in Nigeria, most particularly Federal Capital Territory.
“The Nigeria Police Force recognizes the
constitutional rights of every law abiding citizen to express his or her view through public protest/procession and other legitimate means,” Awunah said.
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