In a bid to ensure public safety and order during the June 12 Democracy Day celebrations, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, met with the leadership of fifteen Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on Tuesday, June 11, 2025. The meeting, held at the Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, focused on maintaining peace during both the commemorative events and the proposed protest.
The dialogue was described as interactive and constructive, with both the police and CSO representatives affirming a shared commitment to public safety. While half of the CSOs confirmed they would join in nationwide celebrations, the other half indicated plans to stage a peaceful protest. All protest groups agreed to gather at the Ikeja Under-Bridge and jointly proceed to Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota, the only location authorized for protest activities on June 12.
CP Jimoh emphasized the importance of preserving law and order throughout the day’s events and cautioned against disruptions to public peace. The CSOs pledged to ensure that their members conduct themselves responsibly and prevent any attempts by non-state actors to hijack the protest for unlawful purposes.
Participants also agreed to uphold traffic regulations and avoid actions that could obstruct the movement of other Lagosians or disrupt the general atmosphere of celebration. The Commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to providing adequate security for both celebrants and protesters across the state.
The meeting was attended by representatives of various rights and advocacy groups, including Access to Advocacy & Rights of People, Center for Indigene Government Group, Ideal Society Advocacy Groups, Human Right Monitor, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Beko Ransome Kuti group, Rights Kline, Community Development Group, and Initiatives for Development and Advocacy, among others.
CSO leaders assured the Commissioner that they would communicate the resolutions of the meeting to other civil society groups not present, to ensure broad compliance and coordination.
The Lagos State Police Command called on all residents to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and vigilant during the celebrations. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station. Emergency lines 08063299264 and 08065154338 will remain active throughout the period.
The Command expressed appreciation for the cooperation of the CSOs and urged Lagosians to commemorate Democracy Day without fear or disruption.