By Bukola Olamona

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The Ondo State Police Command has issued a stern warning to the Take It Back Movement and its affiliates over an alleged plan to stage a protest across the state on Monday, April 7, 2025.

In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olusola Ayanlade and made available to The Hope, the command cautioned that while the right to peaceful assembly is enshrined in the constitution, the proposed protest is ill-timed and could threaten the fragile peace currently being enjoyed in the state.

The command noted that the protest, if allowed to hold, may be hijacked by criminal elements, resulting in a breakdown of law and order.

“The Command is concerned that such a gathering could be hijacked by unscrupulous elements, leading to a rollback of the security progress we’ve made,” the statement partly read.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfried Afolabi, has consequently directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Units, and Divisional Police Officers to intensify security surveillance across the state, especially around public spaces and key infrastructure.

The police advised the protest organisers to consider engaging the appropriate authorities through peaceful dialogue, stressing that any attempt to cause chaos will be met with decisive action.

Parents and guardians were also urged to dissuade their children and wards from participating in the planned protest.

The command, while assuring residents of adequate security, urged members of the public to go about their lawful activities without fear and report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation.