Tension In Abuja As Security Operatives Fire Live Rounds To Disperse Pro-Kanu Protesters
Protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), were dispersed in chaos on Monday after security operatives allegedly fired live bullets near the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The demonstration, which began around 6:50 a.m. at the Ministry of Women Affairs headquarters, was led by Omoyele Sowore, convener of the #RevolutionNow movement and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).
According to Daily Trust, personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, Guards Brigade, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) had tightened security around major government buildings, including the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Court of Appeal, and Eagle Square.
The protesters, who had earlier vowed to march to the Presidential Villa to demand Kanu’s freedom, were met with heavy resistance as they approached the Court of Appeal area. Witnesses said security operatives opened fire, sending protesters running in panic.
At first, the demonstrators believed the officers intended to use tear gas, but shock spread when live rounds were discharged from multiple directions.
Before the gunfire, Sowore and other protesters were heard pleading with the police, shouting, “Don’t teargas us! Respect the rule of law! We have the right to protest, we’re Nigerians.”
The situation quickly descended into chaos as protesters fled in different directions to avoid the bullets.
As of press time, armoured vehicles and personnel from the Guards Brigade, DSS, and police remained stationed at strategic locations near the Presidential Villa and surrounding government buildings.
