The Police Command in Ondo State has urged residents to avoid participating in the planned ‘Take It Back Movement’ protest scheduled for Monday.
In a statement issued on Monday in Akure, the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olushola, acknowledged citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and free expression but issued the warning based on credible intelligence regarding the planned protest.
Olushola stated, “The command’s primary goal is to maintain security across the state, and we are concerned that such a gathering could be exploited by undesirable elements, leading to a breakdown of law and order. This could reverse the security progress we have made in Ondo State.”
The statement further urged the leadership of the ‘Take It Back Movement’, their supporters, and other interest groups to opt for constructive dialogue to address their grievances instead of taking to the streets, which could escalate tensions.
Olushola explained that the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, had instructed area commanders, tactical team commanders, and Divisional Police Officers to increase personnel deployment. Operational assets would also be positioned in public spaces and critical infrastructure to prevent any disturbances.
The command reassured the people of Ondo State of its commitment to safeguarding their rights and freedoms. Olushola urged parents and guardians to discourage their children from engaging in actions that could disrupt the peace of the state.
He also encouraged the public to go about their daily activities without fear, as security measures are in place to protect everyone. Residents were advised to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or security agency.