Abayomi Oladipo, the Ondo commissioner of police, has warned the state’s residents against participating in the nationwide protest slated for October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day.

The warning came after organisers of the protest against economic hardship insisted they would go ahead with their demonstration on the streets.

One of the main organisers, Omoyele Sowore, had tagged the protest “FearlessInOctober,” noting that the action against President Bola Tinubu’s led government would be held nationwide.

However, a statement on Monday by the Ondo police spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami, quoted Mr Oladipo as saying officers have been deployed to the town to ensure no protest is used to truncate the IIndependence Day celebration.

As part of the celebration, the police chief explained that his men would also be on ground to commemorate this year’s anniversary with our usual laudable parade.

“The CP urges the good people of the state to continue to be patriotic and not join any organisation or group that may want to disrupt the historical celebration of our dear nation.

“In view of the celebration, the Commissioner of Police has ordered that all security apparatus of the police be activated to ensure the celebration is hitch-free and no untoward incident is recorded,” the police’s statement read.

The CP also urged parents and guardians to warn their children and wards not to partake in any activity that can lead to the breakdown of law and order.

He added that the police command is also committed to the protection of lives and property of all citizens as security apparatuses are activated to apprehend anyone who transgressed the law during the celebration.