The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has denied any connection to a WhatsApp message circulating on social media regarding the planned nationwide protests.
Earlier, a screenshot of an alleged WhatsApp message from the IGP was seen discouraging protests in Lagos State.
The message read in part: “If you are going to join any protest next week, it’s good but ask yourself these questions: Why is Lagos always their target? How about starting from your state?”
However, in a statement issued on Sunday night by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP clarified that the message circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms did not originate from the Nigeria Police Force.
Adejobi assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force is dedicated to maintaining peace and order across the country.
The IGP also warned against the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, noting that such actions are criminal and punishable under the Cybercrime law.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Police Force wishes to inform the general public that a message currently circulating alongside a picture of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, did not originate from the police. The message, which poses several questions and opinions about protests, does not essentially represent the ideals or views of the Nigeria Police Force. We urge everyone to disregard this message and other similar contents purpotedly from the NPF as the Force makes all communications via its official channels.
“The NPF is committed to maintaining peace and order throughout the country. We do not endorse any message that could incite division, violence, or destruction. We encourage all Nigerians to engage in peaceful and constructive activities that would contribute to the progress and unity of our dear country.
“Additionally, the NPF expressly warns against the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, or mischievous recycled contents which are capable of causing a breakdown of law and order as such actions are criminal and punishable under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention) Act, 2024 and other extant laws in Nigeria.”
Some Nigerians, particularly the youth, have planned a nationwide protest from August 1st to 10th to draw the government’s attention to the prevailing hardship in the country.
In anticipation of these protests, police and other security agencies are on high alert.
