Police Cautions Against Planned Protests Over Hardship

The Osun police command has advised residents planning a public protest against the “increasing price of commodities” to do so peacefully and avoid a breakdown of law and order.

The warning is contained in a statement issued in Osogbo by the command’s spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, and made available to journalists on Thursday.

Ms Opalola stated that the command received intelligence “that some persons are planning to embark on a protest”.

The police further urged the intending protesters to notify the command about their plan in writing.

“Intelligence at the disposal of the command reveals that some persons, hiding under the guise of increase in the price of commodities, are planning to embark on a protest in the state.

“In view of this, the command is using this medium to urge individuals or group of persons behind this plot to eschew any act that will bring about a breakdown of law and order in the state.

“It is worthy of note that some criminal elements have perfected plans to hijack the protest and jeopardise the peace in the state.

“Consequently, those nursing the thought of any procession should notify the command in writing to enable the emplacement of adequate security measures that will ward off infiltration by criminal elements.

“The Commissioner of Police, Bzigu Kwazhi, advises the good people of the state to go about their lawful daily activities as the command has taken necessary security measures to forestall any likely breakdown of law and order.”