The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, disclosed yesterday that intelligence reports indicated the involvement of foreign mercenaries in the nationwide protests scheduled for August 1.
While briefing reporters in Abuja, the IGP urged all Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group.
His admonition came amid growing public rejection of the proposed mass protest with states, civil society organisations, religious bodies, traditional rulers, youth groups and event organisers distancing themselves from it.
The IGP posited that any protest, peaceful or otherwise, is not needed at this time.
He said: “We have been monitoring development surrounding protest threats.
“While some groups call for violent protests, emulating Kenya’s recent events, others advocate for peaceful demonstrations.
“However, some individuals promote peaceful protests with violent undertones, raising concerns about their sincerity.
“We have our history of violent protests in Nigeria, and I don’t believe we have to look to other countries to note the dangers of unchecked demonstrations.
“We commend patriots who have withdrawn from the protest due to the apparent sinister motives and ignorance of those calling for violence.
“We note those who have spoken out against any form of protest at this critical juncture, fearing enemies of our country may be manipulating the process.
“We confirm their fears are genuine as we have credible intelligence on foreign mercenaries’ involvement in this planned protest.
“The Nigeria police urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and think twice before joining any protest group.”
