Human rights activist and lawyer Femi Falana has called on the police authorities to give protesters adequate protection.
Falana warned the Nigeria Police Force against clamping down on members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and individuals protesting against the hardship in the country.
Sunrise recalls that NLC had, on February 16, declared a nationwide protest for February 27 and 28 in reaction to the economic hardship confronting the nation, following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given to the federal government to address the issue.
In a statement, Falana said that according to Section 83(4) of the Police Act, the protesters have the right to be protected during their demonstrations.
“In view of the threat of some police officers to clamp down on members of the Nigeria Labour Congress who have resolved to protest against hardship in the country from February 27 to 28, 2024, it is pertinent to point out that protesters are entitled to police protection. Specifically, Section 83(4) of the Police Establishment Act 2020 provides as follows:
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 where the meeting, rally or procession will take place shall mobilise personnel to provide security to provide security cover for the meeting, rally or the procession. We are compelled to call on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that the protesters are given adequate security by the various police commands in the country,” Falana wrote.