The Bauchi State Police Command has appealed to the Take It Back Movement to defer its planned nationwide protest, originally slated for Monday.
Authorities raised concerns over the timing of the demonstration, which coincides with National Police Day—a day set aside to honour the commitment and sacrifices of security operatives.
Command spokesperson CSP Ahmed Wakil, speaking to journalists on Sunday, acknowledged citizens’ constitutional rights to assemble peacefully.
However, he questioned the motive behind selecting such a symbolic date for a protest.
Wakil noted that the protest’s organisers failed to officially notify security agencies or request protection, which he described as a lapse in due process.
He warned that proceeding without coordination could pose risks to public safety and damage the country’s international image.
The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has since instructed all police units in Bauchi to enhance patrols across vulnerable areas.
The command further encouraged dialogue with government institutions and urged organisers to submit a comprehensive protest plan for appropriate planning and support.
The police warned that failure to comply might attract consequences, especially if the protest disrupts the peace.
Residents were advised to continue their daily routines and report any unusual activities through the police’s emergency channels.
