The Lagos State Police Command has placed all officers and formations on high alert ahead of a planned nationwide protest scheduled for April 7, 2025.
The protest, organised by the Take-It-Back movement and several other civil society groups, aims to address a range of national concerns, including the controversial Cybercrime Act and the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Friday, the National Coordinator of TIB, Juwon Sanyaolu, explained that the protest was necessitated by “the arbitrary use of the Cybercrime Act to silence dissent” and the continued “state of emergency” in Rivers, which he described as “a form of military rule under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.”
Sanyaolu further stated that the demonstration would press for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and the reinstatement of democratic institutions in Rivers State, including the State House of Assembly and the Executive arm of government.
Meanwhile, the Lagos Police Command has expressed concerns over the planned protest, citing intelligence reports indicating that certain groups, masquerading as civil society organisations, may be planning to incite unrest under the guise of a peaceful demonstration.
A circular signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Tijani O. Fatai stated:
“Intelligence report at the Command’s disposal reveals a plan by some subversive groups parading themselves as Civil Society Organisations and other misguided anti-government forces to incite nationwide protest on 7th April 2025. The protest is aimed at drawing attention to the perceived high cost of living and suppression of free speech.”
The circular warned that the protest could be hijacked by criminal elements intending to cause chaos, attack public facilities, and disrupt socio-economic activities in Lagos.
In response, the Commissioner of Police has ordered heightened security across the state, particularly at key locations identified as potential protest hotspots. These include Gani Fawehinmi Park, National Stadium, Ikeja Underbridge, Obalende, Ojuelegba, and the Lekki Toll Gate, among others.
“We will ensure that the protest, if it proceeds, does not threaten public peace,” the statement continued. “Our mission is to allow peaceful assembly while preventing any hijack by hoodlums or criminal elements.”
The directive also outlined protective measures around critical infrastructure such as INEC offices, government buildings, media houses, transport terminals, food warehouses, markets, and major hospitals.
“Law-abiding citizens are assured of their safety and are encouraged to go about their normal activities without fear,” the circular concluded.
Manpower for the security operation will be sourced from various units, including the Department of Operations, the State Criminal Investigation Department, the Rapid Response Squad, the Counter Terrorism Unit, and multiple Police Mobile Force squadrons stationed across Lagos.
