A coalition of Nigerian youths, students, and civil society organisations has called for the immediate and unconditional release of the National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria (PCN), Dickson Akoh, threatening a mass protest if their demands are not met.
In an emergency press conference in Abuja at the weekend, the coalition highlighted concerns about the escalating police brutality, emphasising the need for accountability and reform of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The civic coalition warned against the recent trend of police brutality and demanded that the commandant be released from custody.
It said following a tenancy dispute with his landlord, armed policemen invaded the Peace Corps Head Office located near Jabi Lake at about 3pm on Friday in a commando style and arrested Akoh alongside 16 officers.
The conveners were; Blessing Akinlosotu for the civil society stakeholders; Murtala Mohammed, former President, National Youth Council of Nigeria; Engr. Uzoh Ifeanyi, representative of International Youth organisations; Olayemi Success, representative of student stakeholders; Mazi Oscar David Kalu, Alhaji Gambo Suleiman Jagindi and Rikki Nwajiofor as national stakeholders; as well as Ademario Emmanuel, DG, Coalition of Nigeria Youth on Security and Safety Affairs.
The coalition said, “We hereby give an ultimatum expiring Monday, October 28, 2024 to the IGP and NPF to both tender an unreserved apology to the NSCDC, unconditionally release the National Commandant of the PCN and other detained youths, and unseal the headquarters of the PCN.
“Furthermore, if the above demands are not meant on Monday, then the Coalition will be left with no other option that to lead the Nigerian youth, student and civil society stakeholders on a peaceful protest to occupy both the Force Headquarters and the National Assembly. This serves as a pre-action notice.”
