Lagos Police boost security ahead of April 7 2025 protest over cyber law and Rivers crisis, warning of threats to key state installations

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Lagos State Police Command has heightened security measures across key locations in anticipation of a nationwide protest scheduled for Monday, 7 April 2025.

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Civil society groups, including the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement, have called for mass action to protest the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act and the controversial “state of emergency” in Rivers State.

The protest also aims to draw attention to what organisers describe as a rising cost of living and ongoing suppression of free speech.

Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of TIB, stated on Friday that demonstrators are demanding the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and an end to what they call a “military dictatorship” under President Bola Tinubu.

The movement is also calling for the immediate reinstatement of suspended democratic institutions in Rivers State, including the State House of Assembly and the Executive.

In response, Lagos police have issued a detailed operation order to all commanders and officers within its jurisdiction.

According to a circular signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Tijani O. Fatai, intelligence reports indicate that some groups posing as civil society organisations plan to incite unrest under the guise of peaceful protests.

The circular reads, “Intelligence report at the Command’s disposal reveals a plan by some subversive groups parading themselves as Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other misguided anti-government forces, to incite nationwide protest… aimed at drawing attention to their perceived prevailing high cost of living and free speech suppression.”

Police fear that criminal elements may exploit the protest to launch attacks on government facilities, opposition leaders, and other public infrastructure.

In light of this, the Commissioner of Police has directed enhanced security around critical installations, including transport terminals, media houses, police stations, and major markets.

Prominent convergence points in Lagos such as Gani Fawehinmi Park, National Stadium, Ikeja Underbridge, Ojuelegba, and the Lekki Toll Gate will witness increased police presence. Strategic locations such as the National Theatre in Iganmu, food hubs, ferry terminals, and high courts have also been flagged for protection.

The directive aims to ensure the protest proceeds without disruption, prevent hijacking by hoodlums, and guarantee the safety of law-abiding citizens. The police have also committed to maintaining traffic flow and securing lives and property across the state.

Personnel for the operation will be drawn from various police formations, including the State Criminal Investigation Department, Rapid Response Squad, Counter-Terrorism Units, and the Anti-Bomb Disposal Squad.

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The Lagos State Police Command urges the public to remain calm and law-abiding while assuring that normal activities will not be disrupted during the protest period.