By Hagxy Don
As the Federal Government prepares to mark the first-ever National Police Day on Monday, April 7th, 2025, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has raised strong concerns over a proposed nationwide protest orchestrated by a group known as the Take It Back Movement. The protest, which is expected to erupt across various states—most notably within the Federal Capital Territory—is, according to the NPF, “ill-timed and mischievous.”
In a press release issued by the Force Headquarters, the police emphasized that while they are not against the constitutionally protected rights of peaceful assembly and association, staging a protest on the same day designated to honor the resilience, sacrifice, and service of Nigeria's police officers is a move that raises suspicions about the group’s true intentions.
“The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is questionable and perceived to be a deliberate and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole,” the statement reads.
The National Police Day, officially declared by the Federal Government to be celebrated annually on April 7th, is expected to host dignitaries from both local and international fronts, including Foreign Inspectors-General of Police and diplomats. The Police fear that the protest could disrupt the significance of the celebration and portray the country in a negative light before the global community.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, reaffirmed the Force's commitment to law enforcement and the protection of citizens' rights, but called on the organizers to “shelve this planned protest” and instead seek engagement through proper governmental channels.
He urged those planning to participate in the demonstration to consider the broader implications of their actions and adopt dialogue as a means to press home their demands, especially on a day meant to acknowledge the very institution tasked with ensuring their safety.
“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organizers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous,” the statement concludes, signaling the NPF’s readiness to maintain order while upholding the law.
As the nation awaits the historic Police Day celebration, all eyes are now on both the protest organizers and the government’s next moves—hoping reason and responsibility will prevail over confrontation.