Tension broke out in Maitama, Abuja, on Monday as officers of the Nigeria Police Force disrupted a peaceful protest.
Chaos followed when tear gas was fired into the crowd, forcing protesters to flee in different directions.
The demonstration was organized by the Take-It-Back Movement and several civil society groups. It drew dozens of concerned Nigerians to the streets of the Federal Capital Territory.
Protesters came prepared with placards carrying messages like “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe.” They marched to voice their anger over worsening national conditions.
At the core of their protest were three key issues. First, they called out the misuse of the Cybercrime Act. Second, they raised concerns over economic hardship. Third, they demanded answers over the political crisis in Rivers State.
The crowd described their actions as a response to what they see as rising authoritarianism in the country.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore joined the protest in solidarity. He stood with the demonstrators and echoed the need for urgent change.
Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of the movement, had announced the protest earlier. He said it was meant to demand economic relief and highlight the growing insecurity in the country.
As of the time of this report, no arrests or injuries had been recorded. Still, the atmosphere remained tense as police officers stayed on high alert in the area.
