No Shots Fired in Abraka Protest – Army

The Nigerian Army has denied allegations that its personnel opened fire on protesters during a recent demonstration in Abraka, Delta State, over growing insecurity in the area.

Commander of the 63 Brigade, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, said the military intervened only after the protest turned violent and insisted that no shots were fired.

Speaking to journalists shortly after a high-level stakeholders’ security meeting at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, on Thursday, Shonibare termed the Army’s intervention as both professional and necessary.

“Nobody was shot in that incident. The protest became chaotic after hoodlums hijacked it, assaulting civilians, closing down shops, and blocking the highway. The police were overwhelmed, so the military had to step in. My men acted professionally.”

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He stated that troops were deployed solely to restore order and did not use excessive force. According to him, the action was required to prevent a complete breakdown of law and order.

Shonibare, however, noted that security agencies across the state have stepped up operations to tackle the rising insecurity, adding that more than 16 individuals were recently rescued from attempted kidnappings.

His comments follow claims from human rights activist, Prince Godstime Ukuanovwe, who alleged that he was assaulted by soldiers during the protest. He also claimed that one demonstrator was shot in the cheek and taken to hospital for treatment.

The activist, a former House of Representatives candidate, said his vehicle was vandalised during the incident and that he later received a call from a senior officer expressing regret for the damage.

Meanwhile, the Delta State government has announced new plans to deploy modern technology including surveillance systems and crime-mapping tools to help security agencies respond more effectively to crime.

Despite the army’s denial, rights groups and some local residents continue to call for an investigation into what transpired in Abraka.