The police in Bauchi have expressed concerns over the planned nationwide Take It Back Movement protest, urging organisers to reconsider and postpone the event.

The protest, scheduled for Monday, coincides with National Police Day, which is intended to recognise the resilience and dedication of officers.

CSP Ahmed Wakil, spokesperson for the command, said this to journalists on Sunday in Bauchi while affirming citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

The command has questioned the timing and motivation behind staging protests on a day meant to celebrate the nation’s security personnel.

The police described the move as “potentially unpatriotic,” warning that it could tarnish the image of the police and the country.

The police said the protest organisers failed to notify any security agency formally and did not request the necessary security coverage.

“As a result, the command strongly advised the group to reconsider and postpone the demonstration, citing increasing security concerns and the need to prioritise public safety,” Mr Wakil said.

According to him, police commissioner Sani-Omolori Aliyu has directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Units, and divisional police officers to intensify visibility patrols across identified flashpoints in Bauchi.

The command also reaffirmed its commitment to executing its mandate per the law while respecting human rights and encouraged the organizers and individuals contemplating participation to engage in dialogue with appropriate governmental institutions to express their concerns.

”The organisers are also urged to submit a detailed plan outlining the parameters of the peaceful protest, including date, time, and location, for proper analysis and arrangements.

”Failure to do so may result in accountability for any adverse situations that could disrupt the peaceful environment currently enjoyed by citizens of Bauchi state.

”The command urges parents and guardians, along with all citizens and residents of Bauchi, to refrain from involving the youth in activities that could destabilise the peaceful atmosphere of the state. The police will rigorously exercise its statutory responsibilities to uphold the law and preserve peace and order,” he said.

The command also urged residents to go about their lawful activities and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, the Police Rescue Me App, or by contacting the emergency numbers 08151849417 and 09053872273.

(NAN)