Police fire teargas to disrupt protests in Abuja

Chaos erupted in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, today, as police officers fired teargas at protesters demanding good governance and an end to corruption.

The demonstration, organized by civil society groups and activists, began peacefully but turned violent when security forces intervened.

Eyewitnesses reported that hundreds of protesters had gathered at the Unity Fountain, a popular protest site, when police arrived and began firing teargas canisters.

“We were singing and chanting, demanding accountability from our leaders, when suddenly the police showed up and started shooting teargas,” said one protester.

The protesters, mostly young Nigerians, were calling for improved living conditions, better infrastructure, and an end to endemic corruption.

They also demanded the resignation of top government officials accused of embezzlement.

*Injuries and Arrests

Reports indicate that several protesters were injured, and at least 20 were arrested.

Police and anti-hardship protests

Nigeria has been experiencing widespread protests against hardship and bad governance, particularly since July 29, 2024.

The protests, tagged #EndBadGovernance, were sparked by the country’s growing economic hardship and hunger, described as the “worst economic crisis in a generation”.

The demonstrations escalated on August 1, 2024, when Nigerian security agencies attempted to quell them, resulting in violence and loss of life.

The protests have been marked by clashes between security forces and protesters, with reports of live ammunition being used to disperse crowds.

At least 21 protesters were killed, and over 1,100 arrested by police on the first day of the protests.

The Nigerian Army also blocked major roads leading to Abuja, the capital, in an attempt to prevent protesters from gathering.

The government’s response to the protests has been criticized, with many calling for President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address the economic crisis and improve living conditions.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the killing of protesters and the physical assaults on journalists by security operatives.

The protests have highlighted the need for urgent action to address Nigeria’s economic crisis and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights.

NBA to offer free services to arrested protesters

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Afam Osigwe, said on Tuesday that the association would provide free legal services to citizens who are harassed or unlawfully arrested or detained during the National Day of Survival protest.

In a statement addressing concerns about the protest and commemorating Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary, Mr Osigwe said Nigerians have the right to demand better governance and human rights reforms.

“In light of this, the NBA reaffirms its commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians.

“We will be providing pro bono legal services to peaceful protesters who may face any form of intimidation, harassment, or arbitrary detention during the protests,” his statement read in part.

He also said the NBA has mandated its Citizens’ Liberties Committee, in conjunction with the NBA Human Rights Committees of our various branches, “to be on standby throughout the country to respond swiftly to any incidents of human rights abuse.”

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