Police Warn Against Nude Protest In Akwa Ibom

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has issued a strong warning to individuals and groups planning protests, including nude demonstrations, over the arrest and prosecution of one Princess God’sown Udoito, describing such actions as unlawful and capable of undermining public peace and the judicial process.

The Command said it had taken “serious note of reports and public statements” allegedly made by some individuals and groups threatening actions that could destabilise the state if their demands were not met.

Speaking on Monday in a statement signed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, the police emphasised that the matter involving Udoito is already before a court of competent jurisdiction.

“The matter in question is already before a court of competent jurisdiction, and any attempt to influence, intimidate, or disrupt the judicial process through threats, protests, or unlawful conduct is unacceptable and contrary to law,” Azare stated.

He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force operates strictly within the confines of the law, noting that arrests and prosecutions are only carried out after due investigation and in line with existing legal provisions.

“The Nigeria Police Force operates strictly within the confines of the law, and arrests and prosecutions are carried out following due investigation and in accordance with extant legal provisions,” the Commissioner said.

While acknowledging the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful expression and peaceful assembly, the police warned that such rights must be exercised within the limits of the law.

“The Command recognises the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful expression and peaceful assembly,” Azare said, “but it will not tolerate threats or acts of nude protests, unlawful occupation of public or private facilities, disruption of government, economic or social activities, or any conduct capable of breaching public peace, safety, or morality.”

He warned that any individual or group found engaging in or attempting to carry out such actions would face the full weight of the law.
“Any individual or group that engages in or attempts such acts will be promptly arrested and prosecuted in line with the law,” the Commissioner cautioned.

The police further advised aggrieved persons and groups to pursue their grievances through lawful and civil channels rather than actions that could escalate tension in the state.

“All aggrieved persons and groups are advised to seek redress through legal and civil means and allow the courts to determine the matter, rather than resorting to actions capable of escalating tension in the State,” the statement added.

Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, Azare assured residents that the police would continue to protect lives and property across the state.

“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command remains committed to the maintenance of law and order and the protection of lives and property,” he said, urging members of the public to “remain calm, law-abiding, and refrain from any act capable of disturbing the peace currently enjoyed in Akwa Ibom State.”