Lagos State Government warns October 1 protest organisers to adhere to court orders, emphasising public safety and designated protest venues.
The Lagos State Government advises organisers of the October 1 protest to adhere to court orders. The government emphasises public safety and designated protest venues.
The Lagos State Government has urged organisers of the October 1 protest not to disrupt social and economic activities in the state.
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This announcement follows the directives from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to the Commissioner of Police regarding public safety during the protest.
The state government highlighted that a Lagos High Court order restricts the protest to Freedom and Peace Parks in Ojota and Ketu.
This ruling remains in effect, and the government insists that protesters must comply.
Organisers had previously stated that the protest would begin at the Ikeja underbridge at 7:30 am, with participants marching through various streets to raise awareness of what they term “anti-poor policies” of the federal government.
They also requested security provisions from the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola, in accordance with the Police Establishment Act 2020.
In response, Mr. Lawal Pedro, the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, affirmed the government’s commitment to upholding citizens’ rights to protest while insisting that it must be conducted legally.
He reiterated that residents should confine their protests to the designated venues as per the court order.
Pedro stated, “The Governor of Lagos State is not opposed to any group expressing their views; however, this must be done within the confines of the law.”
He explained that the state is engaging with civil societies and NGOs to promote understanding of these legal parameters.
He emphasised the government’s stance against street protests that could be exploited by criminal elements, warning that any attempt to disrupt public order would not be tolerated.
“We advise that organisers utilise designated venues for public protest for adequate protection and media coverage,” Pedro added.
He also noted that the same group that organised previous protests is planning the October 1 event, urging them to respect the ongoing court processes related to public demonstrations.
Pedro concluded by stressing that using designated venues ensures adequate security and traffic management while protecting the rights of all citizens, including those who may not wish to participate in the protest.