Hardship Protest: Security Agencies Occupy Abuja Venue as IG, Organisers Disagree

In response to the planned #EndBadGovernance protest, soldiers, policemen, and other security personnel occupied Eagle Square in Abuja on Tuesday. Over 300 security operatives, along with 26 military vans, 12 police patrol vehicles, and a Black Maria, were stationed at the location. The protest, scheduled for Thursday, aims to express grievances over governance issues and is expected to take place in the Federal Capital Territory and other major cities. During a virtual meeting with the protest organisers, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun proposed confining the protests to specific areas for safety. However, the organisers, represented by solicitor Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa and human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, rejected this proposal, citing the fundamental right to protest freely. Meanwhile, the Lagos State High Court issued an order restricting protests to two specific venues: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota and Peace Park in Ketu. The court’s decision followed an application by Lagos State Attorney-General Lawal Pedro, SAN, who argued that unrestricted protests could lead to public safety issues and economic sabotage. In Abuja, security forces were deployed extensively, creating a sense of unease among residents and workers. Some civil servants expressed intentions to avoid work during the protest period, fearing potential violence. Security operatives were also visible at key locations, including near the National Assembly and major roads. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju criticized the military deployment, urging the Chief of Army Staff to withdraw troops and allow the police to handle security. Adeyanju argued that military involvement could escalate tensions, referencing past protests like #EndSARS.

Despite the heavy security presence and restrictions, the protest organisers remain determined. Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, stated that they would proceed with their plans, confident that the government would eventually concede to their demands.

The situation has drawn reactions from various groups and individuals. The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and other community leaders have called for peaceful demonstrations, urging protesters to avoid violence. In contrast, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing announced that Igbo youths would not participate, opting instead for constructive dialogue with the government.