Nigeria Police Target Tire Shops Amidst Protests

The Inspector General of Police in Nigeria has ordered state commands to raid tire shops. The police will seize unused tires. This is reportedly to stop protesters from using tires to start fires. Fires could be set on highways during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests. The goal is to stop actions that could disrupt President Bola Tinubu’s government.

Police Order and Concerns

A leaked message from the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State warned police officers (DPOs). The message stated that officers would be punished if protesters burned tires in their area. The message was dated “DTO:240840/07/2024” and addressed to several police departments. It read: “CB:4001/EKS/DOPS/VOL.53/181. Order and directives. Re-nationwide protest against end bad government in Nigeria.

In view of Inspector General of Police conference/briefing with Assistant Inspector General of Police zones and Commissioners of Police in all states, the Commissioner of Police directed DPOs to go out in the midnight, raid tire shops, seize un-used tires, and dispose of them to prevent protesters from setting fire to highways.” The message did not detail the punishments for DPOs. [Source needed]

This order has caused controversy and worry about police overreach. Critics say that taking tires from shops is too harsh. They say it hurts small business owners and does not fix the real problems driving the protests. The police should focus on keeping order. They should protect the rights of protesters to gather peacefully. They should not use actions that seem oppressive and harm the economy.

Legality and Civil Liberties

Legal experts question if the order is legal. They suggest it may break rights to free speech and peaceful protest. Taking private property may be an abuse of power. It raises concerns about the loss of civil rights. This order also shows the growing tension. The tension is between the government and citizens who are unhappy. They are unhappy about the economy and how the country is governed.

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests

The planned protests are called #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria. They show widespread anger with the current government. People are upset about the economy, rising prices, and corruption. The movement wants President Bola Tinubu to be responsible for his promises. They demand more honesty and accountability in government.

The protests are expected to include students, unions, and other groups. They all want better government and a better life.

The government’s response to the protests will be watched closely. This includes both in Nigeria and around the world. A harsh response could increase tension and hurt the government’s image.

Related News: Sahara Reporters says similar raids on tire shops happened in 2020 during planned protests (https://saharareporters.com/2020/10/15/nigeria-police-accused-raiding-vulcanizer-shops-confiscating-tyres-ahead-planned). Legit.ng also reported that police were accused of taking tires from shops in Lagos during that time (https://www.legit.ng/nigeria/1379109-endsars-police-accused-seizing-tyres-vulcanizers-lagos/).

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