Parts of Abuja were tense Monday as security personnel blocked important thoroughfares to Eagles Square and the Federal Secretariat in order to thwart a planned demonstration against the contentious cybercrime law and the proposed emergency rule in Rivers State.
The Nigeria Police Force reportedly issued a warning against the protest earlier, stating that they were worried about possible disturbances.
The demonstration took place on National Police Day, a day designated to honor the force’s services, and police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Olumuyiwa Adejobi asked the organizers to think twice.
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Heavy-armed riot police had already set up shop along key highways before sunrise, preventing anyone from entering the demonstration site.
When workers attempted to get to their nearby offices in the early hours of the morning, the security crackdown left them trapped.
Witnesses told Vanguard that passengers trying to enter buildings close to Eagles Square were made to get off their buses and walk under close observation.
Roads were congested by cars and people as a result of the roadblock, which caused severe traffic jams.Abuja, Eagles Square, Traffic, Protest, Riot Police, Security, Nigeria News, Demonstration, Road Block, Police Action, Civil Unrest,
Despite the interruptions, police officials did not provide an explanation for why they closed important roads on a workday, so irate commuters had to look for other ways.
The length of time the security measures will be in effect is unpredictable as the situation develops.
