Abuja – April 6, 2025 – The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a strong warning to the organizers of a proposed nationwide protest spearheaded by the \"Take It Back Movement,\" urging them to reconsider the timing of their demonstration slated for Monday, April 7, 2025.

In an official statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police described the scheduled protest as “ill-timed” and “mischievous,” especially as it coincides with the inaugural National Police Day – a day designated by the Federal Government to celebrate the resilience and dedication of police officers across the country.

According to the statement, the protest is expected to hold in several states, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory, on a day the police say will attract both local and international dignitaries, including foreign Inspectors-General of Police and diplomats.

While the police acknowledged citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, they expressed concerns over what they described as the \"questionable motive\" behind choosing such a symbolic day for a mass protest. The Force suggested that the timing may be a calculated attempt to undermine the image of the police institution and the nation at large.

\"The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is however questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole,\" the statement read.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to respecting citizens’ rights while calling on the organizers and potential protesters to explore dialogue with relevant government institutions as a more constructive avenue for airing grievances.

The police have now called on the “Take It Back Movement” to shelve their planned protest in the interest of national unity and respect for the day set aside to honor the country’s law enforcement personnel.