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By Oluseye Ojo
The National Coordinator for the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), Olabisi Okuwobi, has made a passionate plea to all Nigerians to embrace non-criminal assembly. The appeal came amidst the ongoing 10-day #EndBadGovernance protest that began on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
Okuwobi, who is a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), outlined 15 detrimental effects of violent protests, which include physical harm to individuals, damage to property and infrastructure, disruption of essential services, and economic instability.
She also warned against the potential for sectionalism, tribalism, and religious bigotry to arise within communities due to such violent protests.
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Okuwobi highlighted the erosion of trust in institutions and authorities, the creation of fear and anxiety among the public, and the distractions from the original goals of the protest as additional negative consequences.
The POCACOV boss stressed the dangers of allowing extremist and criminal elements to exploit the situation, which could further escalate violence and conflict.
Okuwobi emphasised the potential for legal consequences, emotional trauma, disruption of social cohesion, and the adverse impact on both local and foreign investments. Her words: “Investors may become apprehensive about their investments due to the instability caused by violent protests. Consequently, this could have dire implications for the country’s image and reputation. “Therefore, the POCACOV is urging all Nigerians to consider the long-term effects of violent protests and instead embrace peaceful and non-criminal gatherings as a means to express their grievances.” Okuwobi also underscored the importance of maintaining social harmony and building trust within the community
