Police Disperse Protesters with Tear Gas in Rivers and Abuja

Tensions erupted this morning in Port Harcourt as police used tear gas to disperse members of the ‘Take It Back Movement’ who gathered at Isaac Boro Park to protest. The demonstration, which started around 9 a.m., was quickly met with a heavy police presence. Officers chased down protesters, and several individuals, including journalists covering the event, were reportedly assaulted.

The protesters raised concerns about several issues, including calls for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and the suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. One of the demonstrators, Chetam Nwala, revealed that police were notified ahead of the protest, but the response was nonetheless aggressive.

The unrest was not confined to Port Harcourt. In the capital city of Abuja, a separate protest organized by activist Omoyele Sowore also saw clashes with law enforcement. Police deployed tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd in the Maitama district, forcing many protesters to scatter in confusion. They were demanding action over the deteriorating economic conditions and the ongoing emergency rule in Rivers State.

The events underscore the mounting frustrations among Nigerians over the government’s handling of key issues, including security and the economy. So far, neither the Rivers State Police nor the Abuja authorities have issued an official statement regarding the incidents.