Amid growing unrest over economic hardship and political tension in parts of the country, the Lagos State Police Command has activated heightened security measures in anticipation of a planned nationwide protest scheduled for April 7, 2025.
This move comes as civil society groups, including the Take-It-Back Movement, declared their intention to stage demonstrations to demand the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and an end to what they describe as an “emergency rule” in Rivers State. The protest, they argue, targets government suppression of free speech and democratic institutions under the current administration.
In a statement released Friday, National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, criticised the use of the Cybercrime Act against dissenters and condemned the federal government’s approach in Rivers State, labelling it a veiled form of military control. The group also called for the reinstatement of suspended state institutions, including the Rivers State House of Assembly.
However, in a directive circulated on Saturday, the Lagos Command warned of possible security threats.
Intelligence gathered, according to the circular signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Tijani O. Fatai, suggests that certain “subversive groups” operating under the guise of civil society organisations could exploit the protest to incite chaos.
The police expressed concerns that the demonstration might be hijacked by criminal elements aiming to target government assets and disrupt public order. In response, the Commissioner of Police has ordered the deployment of personnel to several strategic points across the state.
The security operation will cover high-risk zones such as Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojuelegba, Oshodi, Allen Roundabout, Lekki Toll Gate, Marina, and major transport terminals, among others. Key government buildings, markets, and public facilities, including courts, media houses, fuel stations, and hospitals, will also be under close watch.
The command emphasised that the goal is to safeguard lives and property, prevent disruptions to daily activities, and ensure protesters do not breach the law.
Units from multiple departments, including the State CID, Rapid Response Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and anti-bomb squads, have been mobilised for the operation.
Despite the planned protest, the police assured Lagos residents that law-abiding citizens can go about their normal activities without fear, as adequate security arrangements have been made.
