Human rights activist and lawyer, Femi Falana, has called on the police authorities to provide adequate protection for protesters in the country.
Falana’s call comes in light of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) declaration of a nationwide protest scheduled for February 27 and 28 to protest against the economic hardship in the country.
In a statement, Falana warned the Nigeria Police Force against clamping down on NLC members and other individuals participating in the protests, emphasizing their right to be protected during demonstrations as enshrined in Section 83(4) of the Police Act.
“Protesters are entitled to police protection. Specifically, Section 83(4) of the Police Establishment Act 2020 provides that where a person or organisation notifies the police of his or its intention to hold a public meeting, rally, or procession on a public highway or such meetings in a place where the public has access to, the police officer responsible for the area shall mobilise personnel to provide security cover for the meeting, rally, or procession,” Falana stated.
He called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that protesters are given adequate security by the various police commands across the country.
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