Markets, roads closed as Ondo residents shun protest

The nationwide protest was a flop in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Thursday as residents refrained from participating in the civil action.
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While monitoring the situation within the metropolis, The Guardian observed that the major roads were deserted, as few vehicles were seen moving while some people were seen taking a walk.

The popular Oba Adesida-Oyemekun road as well as Arakale Road, which used to be filled with beehives of activities were shadows of themselves as most residents stayed indoors.

Also, the markets in the city were all closed down as traders locked their shops over fear of possible violence.

At the busy Olukayode Complex, the traders, mostly men, were seen playing football on a section of the road adjacent to the central mosque.
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Speaking on the situation, a resident stated that “we are all scared to go to our shops because no one knows what might happen.” So, one needs to be careful.”

Meanwhile, security operatives were strategically positioned at various junctions in the state capital in order to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

A lone protester was, however, attacked by some hoodlums at the popular NEPA junction. The unidentified protester was said to be carrying a placard and calling others to join him before he was attacked and beaten.

A source at the scene disclosed that the hoodlums were shouting that no protest would be allowed to take place in the state.
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