In a dramatic turn of events, streets in Abuja and Lagos were swarmed by protesters on Monday, April 7, 2025, as the “Take It Back Movement” launched coordinated demonstrations across Nigeria — coinciding with the nation’s inaugural National Police Day.
The Nigeria Police Force has voiced strong concerns over the timing of the protests, which they described as a “deliberate attempt to tarnish the image of the Nigeria Police and, by extension, the nation.”
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement cautioning against the protests, particularly their alignment with the official Police Day celebrations.
“The Nigeria Police Force has read in the news that a group called ‘Take It Back Movement’ is planning a protest across various states of the Federation, most especially the Federal Capital Territory, scheduled to hold on Monday, April 7, 2025 — a day earmarked by the Federal Government as National Police Day,” Adejobi stated.
The Police warned that the protest may disrupt national activities planned to honor the sacrifices and dedication of law enforcement officers, with dignitaries and stakeholders from across sectors expected to participate in the celebration.
“While we are not against citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about the motive behind scheduling this protest on a day meant to recognize and celebrate the contributions of the Police to national security,” Adejobi added.
The Federal Government had earlier declared April 7 as National Police Day, joining global efforts to honor the resilience and service of police officers nationwide.
“In line with international best practices, the Nigerian Government has taken the bold step of setting aside every April 7 as National Police Day,” Adejobi emphasized.
As the demonstrations continue, the nation watches closely, with concerns mounting over possible clashes and the broader implications for civil-police relation.
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