The Lagos state government on Thursday warned protesters planning to converge at the Lekki toll gate on Saturday to desist from flouting COVID-19 regulations or block roads.
The protests were scheduled after the Lagos state judicial panel decided to hand-over the keys to the toll gate back to the Lekki Concession Company.
Collection of fees at the toll-gate had been suspended since the #EndSARS protests which culminated into a bloody shooting on October 20 by military officials.
While some protesters are defending the decision to reopen the toll-gate, others want it reviewed.
“Our attention is drawn to the planned protest scheduled for Saturday February 13, 2021 at the Lekki Toll Gate for and against the opening of the Admiralty Toll Gate,” a statement from the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, said on Thursday.
“The State is aware of Sections 39 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which guarantees the Rights to Freedom of Expression and Peaceful Assembly. However, such right does not permit the violation of the Rights of other citizens in the State.
“While the State recognises the importance of exercising the Rights to Peaceful protests, same cannot extend to blockage of roads and or preventing other members of the public from enjoying their Fundamental Rights to move freely within the State.