DeeOne Warns of Possible #EndSARS Protest Over IGP’s Comment on Recording Police Officers
Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) star and comedian, DeeOne, has warned that Nigeria could witness another #EndSARS protest following comments attributed to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu, regarding citizens recording police officers while on duty.
DeeOne made the remarks in a post on his Instagram page while reacting to reports that the IGP had cautioned Nigerians against recording police officers during official operations.
According to reports, Disu urged Nigerians to exercise restraint when exercising their rights to record police personnel, arguing that the practice could demoralise officers while carrying out their duties.
Reacting to the development, DeeOne criticised the position attributed to the IGP, arguing that restricting citizens from recording police officers could undermine accountability and public trust.
The comedian recalled that viral videos showing alleged cases of police harassment and misconduct played a significant role in the events that led to the #EndSARS protests in 2020.
“Very soon, there might be another #EndSARS protest in Nigeria,” DeeOne said, expressing concern that statements discouraging citizens from documenting police encounters could create tension between the police and the public.
He argued that citizens should be allowed to document encounters with police officers in public spaces, particularly as such recordings can provide evidence when disputes or allegations of misconduct arise.
DeeOne also raised concerns about the conduct and preparedness of some police officers, alleging that he had recently encountered an officer at a police station who appeared to be intoxicated.
He questioned the potential consequences of having officers who are allegedly unfit for duty carrying firearms and interacting with members of the public.
The comedian urged the IGP to prioritise stronger cooperation and trust between the police and citizens, rather than making statements that could further strain relations between both sides.
He also appealed to the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and other stakeholders to continue engaging with the police leadership on issues surrounding citizens’ rights and police accountability.
DeeOne stressed that the police exist to serve and protect citizens and should therefore work towards building a relationship based on mutual respect, accountability and public confidence.
The #EndSARS protests of 2020 were sparked by widespread concerns over alleged police brutality and misconduct, particularly involving the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
DeeOne’s latest comments come amid renewed public debate over the balance between police officers’ operational duties and citizens’ rights to document activities taking place in public spaces.
