By ADEWOLE KEHINDE

"The duties of an officer are the safety, honour, and welfare of your country first; the honour, welfare, and comfort of the men in your command second; and the officer?s own ease, comfort, and safety last." ? George S. Patton

Omoyele Sowore's call for personnel of the Nigeria Police Force to participate in his planned nationwide protest is not only rash but also illegal.

Though the Constitution guarantees citizens the right to peaceful assembly and protest, police personnel are expected to uphold a higher standard of discipline, loyalty, and service to the state by virtue of their employment.

Joining Sowore?s protest would constitute a violation of the Police Act and the Public Service Rules. Police officers are bound by the Police Act 2020 and the Public Service Rules, both of which strictly prohibit their engagement in any form of protest, strike, or mutiny.

Section 4 of the Police Act outlines that officers must maintain law and order, not join civil demonstrations.

Participation in such protests would amount to gross misconduct and could lead to dismissal or criminal charges, especially if it incites insubordination.

Encouraging police personnel to defy the chain of command and participate in protests can be interpreted as mutiny, which is a serious offence under Nigerian law.

It undermines national security and endangers public safety. The Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined and regimented organisation; any act that threatens its cohesion can destabilise the entire security architecture.

Sowore?s history of confrontational activism and repeated clashes with state institutions suggests that the protest may be politically motivated.

Police officers must remain apolitical and must not allow themselves to be used as pawns in political games. Participating in a protest led by a politically exposed individual like Sowore could compromise the neutrality of the Force.

The public depends on the police for protection during demonstrations. If the police themselves become protesters, who will protect lives and property?

Their participation would send the wrong signal to citizens, diminish confidence in the institution, and further erode the public?s sense of safety.

If armed officers join a protest, especially one with anti-government overtones, it poses a clear national security risk. The presence of uniformed or armed police personnel at any protest could escalate tensions, provoke violence, and create chaos.

If welfare or structural issues are affecting the police, they must be addressed through internal mechanisms, advocacy, and constructive engagement with relevant authorities, not through protests.

Resorting to street demonstrations is not the solution and could set a dangerous precedent for other security agencies.

In conclusion, the Nigeria Police must resist the temptation to be drawn into a protest that violates its laws, ethics, and structure. Discipline, loyalty, and professionalism must guide the conduct of every officer.

The security of the country cannot be jeopardised for political theatrics. The rule of law must prevail, and officers who defy it should be held accountable.

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