The Ondo State Police Command has advised residents to avoid participating in the planned ‘Take it Back Movement’ protest scheduled for Monday, April 7, citing security concerns.
A statement released by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olushola, acknowledged citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly but warned that the protest could be exploited by criminals, potentially destabilising the state’s security.
“The effort of the command is to stabilise the security situation across the state, and we are concerned that such a gathering could be hijacked by unscrupulous elements,” Olushola stated.
He added that the protest, at this time, could lead to a breakdown of law and order, undoing the security progress made in Ondo.
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Olushola further urged the ‘Take it Back Movement’ leadership and their supporters to consider constructive dialogue instead of taking to the streets. “If they take to the streets in such a manner, it may heighten tensions and heat up the polity,” he cautioned.
In response, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, has directed area commanders, tactical teams, and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to increase security measures and deploy operational resources across key public spaces and infrastructure.
Olushola reassured the public of the police’s commitment to protecting their rights and safety. He also appealed to parents and guardians to discourage their children from engaging in actions that could disrupt Ondo’s peace.
“We urge residents to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or security agency,” Olushola added.