The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Ayodele Sonubi, has assured that the police are prepared to ensure the safety of peaceful and lawful protesters in the state. Sonubi made this statement during a stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan on Monday, where he discussed the command’s readiness for the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for August 1.
The meeting, which included religious leaders, traditional rulers, transport unions, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the Nigeria Labour Congress, and the Trade Union Congress, emphasized that while the police respect citizens’ rights to peaceful protests, they must remain non-violent.
Sonubi highlighted that the police will protect those participating in non-violent protests but will take action against any who escalate the situation to violence. He stressed that criminal behavior during protests will not be tolerated and that law enforcement will respond appropriately to restore order.
The police commissioner urged protest organizers to identify themselves and coordinate with the police regarding their protest routes and plans to ensure safety. He also called on parents, religious leaders, and other influencers to discourage violence and promote peace.
In response, Mr. Olojede Victor, Senior Special Adviser to Gov. Seyi Makinde on Student Affairs, and Mr. Alao John, South-West Coordinator of NANS, indicated efforts to prevent protests in the state but assured that any protests would be peaceful. Meanwhile, key figures such as the Babaloja-General of Oyo State and the Deputy Secretary of the Oyo State Park Management System announced that their members would not participate in the protests. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, represented by Chief Ariori Asimiyu, urged citizens to address grievances through appropriate channels rather than resorting to violent protests.