The Commissioner of Police for Oyo State, Ayodele Sonubi, has assured that the Command is prepared to ensure the safety of peaceful and lawful protesters in the state.
Sonubi made this statement on Monday in Ibadan during a stakeholders' meeting to discuss the Command's readiness for the nationwide protest scheduled for August 1. The meeting was attended by various groups including religious leaders, traditional rulers, transport unions, the National Association of Nigerian Students, the Nigeria Labour Congress, and the Trade Union Congress.
Sonubi emphasized that while the right to peaceful protest is recognized, it is crucial that such demonstrations remain non-violent. He assured that the Police are committed to protecting peaceful protesters but will take action against any attempts to turn the protest into a violent event.
He added, "If a protest becomes violent, it is treated as a criminal act by the Police, and we will address it accordingly. No law enforcement agency will tolerate criminal behavior, and once a protest escalates into violence, appropriate measures will be taken."