The Coalition of Civil Rights Groups (CCRG) has raised alarm over what it describes as a “calculated and sinister plot” by former presidential aspirant, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, to incite unrest and destabilize Nigeria through a planned nationwide protest scheduled for July 21, 2025.
In a strongly worded statement released on Thursday and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jude Ochiaga, the group accused Sowore and his associates, including a figure identified as Mr. Dan Bello, of using the protest as a guise to discredit the Nigeria Police Force and sabotage the ongoing reforms under the leadership of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“Following credible intelligence and a covert meeting between Mr. Sowore and known elements bent on fanning ethnic and political tensions, it is evident this protest is not driven by patriotic motives,” the CCRG stated. “It is a campaign of calumny aimed at blackmailing the Police and destabilizing the peace of the country.”
The group claimed that the protest was an extension of Sowore’s “self-serving political agenda,” alleging that the mobilization of “rented crowds” is intended to manipulate public sentiment and derail the Nigeria Police’s reform initiatives. They emphasized that under IGP Egbetokun, the Police Force has made tangible progress in welfare improvements, institutional reforms, and stakeholder engagement.
“It is shameful that at a time when reforms are being institutionalized, some individuals are bent on causing confusion and inciting disaffection,” the statement read. “This protest is not about justice or the welfare of officers; it is about division and political desperation.”
The CCRG called on Nigerians and the international community to reject the protest and remain vigilant against what it termed “opportunistic plots” to plunge the nation into avoidable crisis.
The organization reaffirmed its confidence in the IGP and urged all parties to support the ongoing transformation of the Nigeria Police Force. It also warned those behind the planned demonstration to desist from any actions that could threaten national peace.
“We shall not sit idly while enemies of the state attempt to derail our stability,” the group said.
