By Chukwuemeka Umesi
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The Rivers State Police Command has strongly condemned the extortion and harassment of passengers by a group of individuals linked to the #EndBadGovernance protest in some parts of the state on Thursday.According to eyewitnesses, the protesters blocked major roads, including the Mgboba and Igweutali axis in the Ohio/Akpor Local Government Area, and extorted money from passengers. Some protesters were also seen brandishing sticks and harassing passers-by.”The situation was chaotic,” said one eyewitness. “The protesters were blocking the roads and demanding money from passengers. Some people were even beaten up.”The Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, denounced the unlawful activities and warned the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully. “The CP cautions the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully and desist from infringing on the rights of others. Blocking roads, harassing passers-by, and engaging in looting or other crimes do not constitute lawful protest and will not be tolerated,” the statement read.The police commissioner emphasized that the command would take necessary action against any unlawful acts. “The police will take necessary action against such unlawful acts. The CP further advised parents and guardians to speak to their children and wards to act within the ambit of the law. Citizens are implored to go about their lawful duties, as the police are committed to protecting lives and property,” the statement concluded.The #EndBadGovernance protest, which began on Thursday, has seen thousands of Nigerians take to the streets to demand better governance and an end to corruption. However, the protest has been marred by reports of violence and extortion in some parts of the country.The #EndBadGovernance protest is a nationwide demonstration against the perceived poor governance and corruption in Nigeria. The protest was organized by a coalition of civil society groups and has been largely peaceful, with protesters calling for reforms and accountability.However, the protest has been marred by reports of violence and extortion in some parts of the country. In Rivers State, protesters blocked major roads and extorted money from passengers, leading to a condemnation by the police commissioner.The police commissioner’s warning has been praised by many, who see it as a necessary step to maintain law and order. “The police commissioner is right to condemn the extortion and harassment by protesters,” said one resident. “We need to maintain law and order in our state.”However, some have criticized the police commissioner’s warning, saying it is an attempt to suppress the protest. “The police commissioner is trying to silence us,” said one protester. “We will continue to protest until our demands are met.”