The police command in Rivers State says the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceProtest in the state has taken a bad turn stressing that unlawful acts such as extortion, destruction of vehicles, and harassment of business owners will no longer be tolerated.... CLICK TO READ THE FULL NEWS HERE▶▶
This was disclosed by the spokesperson for the Command, Grace Iringe-Koko in a statement titled ‘Protest Taking Another Shape’ issued in Port Harcourt.
According to her, the lack of clear leadership among protesters has led to a breakdown in law and order as she vowed perpetrators will be arrested and prosecuted.
She noted that the protest is closely monitored by the security service but expressed worry over the call by a group of traders and motorists to stay at home or join the protest.
The statement reads, “On August 5th, 2024, the command observed that the protest in Rivers State has taken a concerning turn.
“The protesters were earlier advised to conduct their demonstration peacefully within designated locations, while the police would provide adequate protection and isolate any criminal elements.
“However, the command has noticed a lack of identifiable leadership or coordination among the various groups, leading to a breakdown of order.
“Regrettably, the protesters have resorted to unlawful acts, such as burning tyres, extorting motorists, blocking roads, damaging vehicles, harassing business owners, and stealing from innocent residents.”
The statement also added that a group has threatened that the pattern of the protest will change on August 7th, 2024, calling on traders and motorists to stay at home or join the protest.
Continuing, the statement said, “The Rivers State Police Command affirms the constitutional right of citizens to protest and express their views.
“However, the command has observed clear indications that the organisers are losing control of the protesters, who are resorting to more violence and criminal conduct.
“Therefore, the police will act decisively to arrest and prosecute any individual who attempts to infringe on the rights of others or engage in criminal activities under the guise of the protest.
“The police will take necessary and decisive action immediately if the protest stops being peaceful.
“The police advise that protesters should remain in the designated protest areas, Pleasure Park and Abali Park. They should refrain from disrupting the free movement of citizens or engaging in any unlawful activities.”
