The Lagos State Police Command has extended an invitation to Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, for a meeting with the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola.
This gathering aims to address “issues of national interest” and is scheduled for September 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja.
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The Take It Back Movement, known for its role in organizing the #EndBadGovernance protests across Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and other states in August, is at the center of this discussion.
In a letter dated September 24, 2024, Assistant Commissioner of Police Jaiyeoba Joseph from the State Intelligence Department invited Sanyaolu and his executive team to participate in the dialogue.
Lagos Police Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the meeting when contacted by Punch, emphasizing that it would be a peaceful discussion with no intent to arrest.
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The new Commissioner of Police wants to meet with key figures,” Hundeyin stated, adding that similar invitations had been extended to Nollywood actors and social media influencers.
This invitation comes as the “Fearless In October” nationwide protest is set for October 1, 2024. Sanyaolu, who was previously arrested by security agents on June 11, 2024, just a day before the June 12 Democracy Day protests, was released two days later from the Ikeja Police Command.
When asked if the upcoming October protest would be part of the meeting’s agenda, Hundeyin confirmed it would be discussed but reiterated that the meeting was not confrontational. “Even if he doesn’t attend, there’s no issue,” he added, indicating the police’s openness to dialogue.
The developments reflect ongoing tensions in Nigeria surrounding protests and governance, with the police aiming to engage civil society in discussions to foster peace and understanding.
