By Linus Akomolafe
A human right group, Take It Back Movement (TIB) has accused the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu of inciting anarchy in the State.
The Group said, the statement credited to the police boss, Odumosu, warning citizens not to protest during the commemoration of the #EndSars Massacre Anniversary, is unconscionable, draconian and a reckless invitation to anarchy.
According to the legal adviser of the group, Festus Ogun, Odumosu has no such power, right or authority to warn against, prohibit or outlaw protests and he will be acting the fragile limits of his powers and against the constitution.
He said: “he cannot, under our extant laws, interfere with the hallowed right to protest under any guise. The only legal duty he has is to ensure the security and welfare of all protesters; which must be professionally done”
He stressed that the #EndSars Memorial Demonstration is a constitutionally guaranteed right under Sections 39, 40 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He said: “rather than becoming restless about the looming inevitable revolution that will be witnessed in our country, in the fullness of time, the police chief is advised to ensure the right of protesters are fully protected.
“A police notorious for extrajudicial killing, torture, extortion and brutality lacks the legal and moral right to warn or caution victims on how to demand a better life. The audacity is provocative, scandalous and insulting”
“We shall not condone any form of harassment, intimidation, brutalization or arrest. We shall resist any attempt to encroach on our constitutionally guaranteed rights. The police and other security agencies are hereby put on notice and they should be guided accordingly.”
