PCRC Condemns Planned April 7 Nationwide Protests, Says It is Ill-considered, Non-Circumspect, Mischievous
Olufemi Orunsola
The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) National Headquarters has condemned in its totality, the planned nationwide protests scheduled for April 7, 2025 which is the same day approved by the Federal Government of Nigeria to celebrate National Police day in the country.
The position of the PCRC on the development was made known in a statement by the
Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, to the National Chairman of the body, Comrade (Dr.) Kunle Sodipo as sighted by OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News earlier on Monday.
According to him. "The PCRC is compelled to condemn in its totality the move by some elements to float nationwide protests on Monday April 7, being the grand finale of the National Police day, earmarked to celebrate the bravery and sacrifices of our Police officers and men."
The statement reads in part, "We strongly believe that the organizers and key players behind this protest have not thoroughly considered the potential consequences of their actions, most especially with our responsibility as a nation to ensure the security and safety of many international guests, including service chiefs from different countries who are scheduled to grace the occasion which is the first in the history of the Federal Republic of Nigeria"
Comrade Sodipo noted that, "The timing and motivations behind the protest raise concerns about its true intentions and potential impact on national stability and international relations. We therefore urge the organizers to consider the potential effects on innocent citizens, businesses, and the overall well-being of the country and our guests."
He further emphasized that, "The PCRC emphasizes the importance of peaceful and constructive dialogue in addressing grievances and promoting positive change. With this understanding, we appeal to the organizers to reconsider their plans and engage in meaningful discussions with relevant stakeholders to address their concerns"
He also added that "The PCRC is genuinely committed to promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation between law enforcement and the communities they serve."
The statement concludes that, "We believe that the planned protest is ill-considered, non-circumspect, and mischievous. We urge all parties involved to prioritize the well-being and safety of the nation and its citizens.
OTN News recalls that PUNCH Online had earlier reported that a Civil Society Organisation, the Take-It-Back movement, and other groups had announced a nationwide protest scheduled for April 7, 2025.
In a statement on Friday, the National Coordinator of TIB, Juwon Sanyaolu, said the protest seeks to address issues surrounding the misuse of the Cybercrime Act and the ongoing “state of emergency” in Rivers State.
Sanyaolu further explained that the core demands of the protest include the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and the end of emergency rule in Rivers State, which they describe as a form of military dictatorship under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
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