As Nigeria prepares for Democracy Day on June 12, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Owohundare Jimoh, held a meeting with civil society groups on Wednesday to discuss how the day will be observed, especially by groups planning protests.
The meeting, which took place at the Lagos Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, involved leaders from fifteen Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).
It was organized to ensure that the planned activities for Democracy Day, whether celebrations or protests, do not disrupt peace and order in the state.
Some of the groups said they would join in peaceful celebrations, while others made it clear they would be protesting to mark the country’s return to democracy.
After discussions, those planning to protest agreed on a single route and location.
They will gather at the Ikeja Under-Bridge and walk together to Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota, which is now the only approved place for any protest on June 12.
No other protests will be allowed outside this agreed area. The police also made it clear that protesters must not block traffic or disturb public peace.
This is to make sure that people who want to enjoy the day can do so freely.
During the meeting, the police urged the groups to make sure their protest does not turn violent or get taken over by troublemakers.
The civil society leaders present promised to inform others who were not at the meeting so that everyone would follow the plan.
Groups at the meeting included the Human Rights Monitor, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, and others focused on advocacy, good governance, and human rights.
The police said they want to work closely with everyone involved to maintain calm throughout the celebrations.
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