Security forces forcefully broke up a peaceful demonstration in Abuja on Monday as police fired tear gas at protesters gathered in the Maitama district. The demonstration, organized by civil society groups including the Take-It-Back Movement, aimed to highlight growing national concerns over economic hardship and government policies.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as the chemical irritants sent crowds scrambling for safety. Protesters had been marching with placards bearing messages like “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe” when security personnel intervened. Notable figures including activist Omoyele Sowore joined the demonstration before its dispersal.
The protest coalition identified three key grievances:
1) Alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act to suppress dissent
2) Worsening economic conditions amid rising inflation
3) Political tensions in Rivers State
In a pre-protest statement, Take-It-Back Movement coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu framed the demonstration as resistance against “increasing authoritarianism” and a demand for urgent economic relief measures. While no injuries or arrests were immediately reported, the police action has heightened tensions in the capital.
Authorities had previously warned against the protests, with police spokespersons calling the planned demonstrations “mischievous” in earlier statements. The incident marks the latest confrontation between civil society groups and security forces amid Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges.
