Security operatives should prevent violent protests, say organisers

Damilare Adenola, director of mobilisation at Take it Back Movement, has called on security agents to be on the ground during the nationwide protest.

A youth-led demonstration over the pervasive economic hardship in the country has been billed to commence on August 1.

The federal government and state governors have expressed concerns over the possible hijack of the protest by hoodlums, while urging youths to shelve the marches.

On Thursday, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said the military has “detected” plans by some “unscrupulous elements” to hijack the protest and perpetrate violence.

Speaking when he featured on Sunday Politics, a programme on Channels TV, Adenola said security agents should be available during the protest to arrest anyone attempting to cause violence.

Adenola alleged that the government has a history of sponsoring attacks on peaceful protesters.

“People cannot come to peacefully protest and they are being attacked and you expect that there shouldn’t be any form of reprisal,” Adenola said.

“If security agents are sincere they should be available — they should be on the ground on the day of the protest and if they sense any form of brewing violence they should be able to arrest the situation.”