Security forces, including police and DSS operatives, fired live rounds and teargas to forcefully disperse #EndBadGovernance protesters who had gathered at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja on Saturday.
The protesters, who were exercising their constitutional right to freedom of assembly, were met with violence despite a court order allowing the demonstration to take place within the stadium premises.
Many protesters fled in panic, with some taking refuge in their vehicles. A Premium Times reporter's car was shot at while in motion, we gathered. The sudden crackdown left demonstrators feeling frustrated and disappointed.
The protesters had returned to the stadium after initially taking their demonstration to the streets on the first two days. They carried flags and placards, continuing their demands for better governance, an end to inflation, and improved living conditions.
However, the security forces' heavy-handed response to the peaceful protest has drawn widespread condemnation and concerns from stakeholders. The government's claim that the protest is sponsored remains unsubstantiated
“We just wanted to make our voices heard, but they wouldn’t let us,” said Evelyn, a protester who was present at the scene told Vanguard reporter.
“It’s like they’re trying to silence us, but we won’t be quiet.”
Another protester, Tunde Oyedele, added, “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.”
Moments earlier, the protesters had engaged in a congress, allowing protesters of different ethnicities and tribe to air grievances and make demands on the government.
However, policemen fired teargas at the protesters, who on sighting them, sat on the floor, singing solidarity songs.
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