By joshua 
Kogi Police Demand Protest Organizers Report for Identification Ahead of April 27 Lokoja Rally
The Kogi State Police Command has directed individuals and groups planning a protest in Lokoja on April 27 to report to the Command Headquarters for identification and coordination, citing credible intelligence about the planned demonstration.
In a press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, on Wednesday, the Command said while it recognizes citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, such rights must be exercised within the law and in a manner that does not jeopardize public peace, safety, and security.
Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, advised all intending participants to present themselves to the Police for “proper identification and necessary engagement.” The Command listed three reasons for the directive: to identify genuine organizers and participants; to prevent the protest from being hijacked by criminal elements or persons with ulterior motives; and to enable adequate security planning for a peaceful and orderly exercise.
Organizers are also required to furnish the Command with details of their plans, including the proposed route, duration, and nature of the protest. ASP Afusat said the information will assist in deploying adequate security to protect lives, property, and the rights of all citizens.
The Command warned that any protest that degenerates into violence, unlawful assembly, obstruction of public highways, or acts capable of causing a breach of peace will not be tolerated. “Such actions will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the statement read.
CP Kankarofi urged stakeholders to cooperate with the Police and maintain peace, assuring the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state.
Members of the public were encouraged to remain law-abiding and report any suspicious activities to the nearest Police formation.