The Lagos State Government has affirmed that the court’s directive restricting protests to two designated venues remains in effect. This comes as organisers prepare for the October 1, 2024, protest in Lagos and other states.
State Attorney General Lawal Pedro (SAN) reiterated that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s instructions to the Commissioner of Police for maintaining public safety are still valid. A Lagos High Court ruling restricts protests to Freedom Park and Peace Park in Ojota and Ketu.
Pedro emphasised that while the governor supports lawful protests, the rights to freedom of speech, association, and assembly are not absolute. He cited constitutional provisions that allow the governor to issue directives for public safety.
Despite this, organisers of the #FearlessOctober1 protest insist they will proceed, asserting their fundamental right to protest and requesting security from the Inspector General of Police.
Nigeria will mark its 64th independence on October 1, when protesters plan to demonstrate against economic challenges caused by fuel subsidy removal and currency devaluation. In Lagos, the protest is set to begin at Ikeja Under Bridge at 7:30 a.m.
