The Nigeria Police Force has declared Mark Thankgod Chibundu, Arinze Chukwuma, and others at large wanted in connection with their alleged involvement in a protest that took place on 20 January 2020, in Cele Ijesha, Lagos State.
The protest, organised to oppose government policies, saw a large turnout of young demonstrators but quickly escalated into confrontations between protesters and members of the Nigeria Police.
Mark is wanted on allegations that he participated in an illegal and violent gathering, incited others, caused property damage, resisted arrest, and engaged in encounters with law enforcement officials that resulted in efforts to take their weapons away.
Authorities assert that a substantial portion of the unrest, which resulted in property destruction, altercations with police, and traffic blockades, was caused by Mark, Arinze, and other individuals who are still at large. The suspects were still at large as of the publishing date, and authorities are requesting information from the public that may help in the capture of these individuals.
The protest had become illegal, according to authorities, when participants ignored many orders to leave and instead damaged property owned by the public. Mark, Arinze, and other parties are going to be held fully accountable by the law for their actions in the disturbance, according to the police.
The government also expressed concern over the increasing frequency of protests and has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order while calling for citizens to express their grievances lawfully.
Divergent views have been expressed by the public regarding the demonstration, the manhunt that followed for Mark and Arinze, and other protest participants.
Protest organisers contend that the participants were expressing their freedom of speech and assembly. Concerns have been raised by several residents, though, over the violence that broke out during the demonstration.
Legal experts have also weighed in on the case, with some questioning whether the charges against the’suspects’ align with the constitutionally protected right to peaceful assembly.
As the investigation continues, the police have intensified their efforts to track down the suspects. Speaking anonymously to our reporter, one of the investigators says that the suspects are still within the country, possibly hiding in some rural locations. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, assuring the public that their identity will be protected.
The outcome of this case could have lasting implications for how future protests are handled by both authorities and activists. For now, the public remains divided on whether the suspects are criminals or freedom fighters.
