The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has clarified that he is not associated with a WhatsApp message circulating on social media platforms concerning planned nationwide protests. A screenshot allegedly from the IGP discouraging protests in Lagos State was earlier seen.
According to the statement issued on Sunday night by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP emphasised that the message in circulation, which partly reads: “If you are going to join any protest next week, it’s good but ask yourself these questions: Why is Lagos always their target? How about starting from your state?”, did not originate from the police.
The statement further asserts that this message does not reflect the official stance or beliefs of the Nigeria Police Force.
Adejobi’s statement partly reads: “the message, which poses several questions and opinions about protests, does not essentially represent the ideals or views of the Nigeria Police Force.
We urge everyone to disregard this message and other similar contents purportedly from the NPF as the Force makes all communications via its official channels”.
Adejobi assured that the Nigeria Police Force “is committed to maintaining peace and order throughout the country. We do not endorse any message that could incite division, violence, or destruction.
“We encourage all Nigerians to engage in peaceful and constructive activities that would contribute to the progress and unity of our dear country”.
The IGP sternly warned that the “spread of misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, or mischievous recycled contents”, are criminal acts and punishable under the Cybercrime law.
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