Security Operatives Defy Court Order,  Harass #EndBadGovernance Protesters In Abuja

Security operatives on Saturday forcefully dispersed a group of protesters gathered in front of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, ignoring the existing court order that restricted the protest to the stadium premises.

The protesters, who were exercising their right to freedom of assembly, were met with tear gas and intimidation by security personnel. As expected, the sudden crackdown by the security agencies left many protesters feeling frustrated and disappointed.

“We just wanted to make our voices heard, but they wouldn’t let us,” said Evelyn, a protester present at the scene, adding; “It’s like they’re trying to silence us, but we won’t be quiet.”

Also speaking on the security agencies’ action, another protester, Tunde Oyedele, said; “We’re not troublemakers; we just want change. But every time we try to speak out, they shut us down. It’s like our voices don’t matter.”

A Vanguard correspondent, who properly identified himself as a journalist and attempted to enter the stadium, was denied access by the security personnel, with one of them warning him thus; “Find your way out of here. You can’t park your vehicle inside the stadium either. There is no protest here. We were told there would no longer be any protest here again.”

One of the protesters, visibly angered by the development, stated that the security agencies’ action on Saturday went against the court order and raised questions about their position of always reminding the public to obey court orders whenever it suits them.

He further said the incident highlights concerns about the suppression of free speech and the rule of law in Nigeria, leaving many to wonder if their voices will ever be heard.

However, despite the tension and anxiety in the air, vehicular movement and businesses have gradually picked up momentum in the nation’s capital on the third day of protests against hunger and economic hardships.

The atmosphere in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) appears to be normalizing, with many residents going about their daily activities without fear of harassment and intimidation.