Police Disperse ‘Take-It-Back’ Protesters in Abuja with Tear Gas Amid Growing Tensions
A tense situation unfolded on Monday morning in Maitama, Abuja, as security operatives used tear gas to disperse protesters from the “Take-It-Back” Movement, who had gathered to voice concerns over national issues. The demonstration, supported by several civil society organizations, aimed to address what they described as worsening economic hardship, the misuse of the Cybercrime Act, and the imposition of a “state of emergency” in Rivers State.
The protesters, carrying placards with messages like “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe,” marched through the streets of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) but were met with a heavy security presence. A police helicopter hovered overhead, monitoring the protest, while authorities set up blockades around the Three Arms Zone, where top police officials were attending a ceremony honoring the NPF.
Despite the heightened security, the demonstration went ahead with notable figures like human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and lawyer Deji Adeyanju showing support. The protest aimed to resist increasing authoritarianism, demand relief for Nigerians struggling with inflation and insecurity, and call attention to efforts to suppress dissent.
While the protest was met with minimal force and no reported injuries or arrests, the atmosphere remained tense. The National Assembly complex, one of the intended destinations for the march, was largely deserted due to the legislative recess, with lawmakers not due to return until April 29.
Residents who spoke to our correspondent urged security forces to maintain calm and prevent the situation from escalating further. Despite the disruption, the protest leaders emphasized the necessity and timeliness of their demands, calling for immediate government action to address the economic and security challenges facing the country.
