The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has supposedly instructed the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to apprehend activists and union leaders to prevent the upcoming nationwide protests set for October 1, 2024.
These protests, organized by the #RevolutionNow Movement, seek to tackle concerns of poor governance in Nigeria.
Sources mentioned by Sahara Reporters have stated that the IRT has started arresting activists, like Mr. Adeyemi Abayomi, who was reportedly taken into custody by IRT officers without clear charges being presented.
According to Sahara Reporters, sources have confirmed that the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) has started arresting activists in Nigeria, including Mr. Adeyemi Abayomi, who was allegedly taken by IRT members without clear charges.
There are reports that Mr. Abayomi was subjected to torture for three days and coerced into making false statements that incriminated other activists.
Human rights groups and civil society organizations have criticized the Nigerian Police Force for violating civil rights and freedom of speech through these actions. The aggressive measures, such as denying legal aid and seizing personal belongings, have raised significant concerns.
The upcoming nationwide protests, planned to commence on October 1, aim to build on the #EndBadGovernance movement, with activists calling for improved governance and accountability from government officials.
Despite the crackdown, the #RevolutionNow Movement has declared its determination to proceed with the scheduled protests.