Massive security as Abuja awaits protests

The Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is currently enveloped in thick security, as a visible military and police presence is being felt around the city.

The once-relaxed atmosphere has given way to a sense of heightened vigilance.

Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and patrol cars are seen on every road in the city centre, while checkpoints and roadblocks have become a familiar sight at all gateways to Abuja to maintain law and order in the face of perceived threats.

The security apparatus remains on high alert. The military and police officers have taken control of key roads leading to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The heightened security comes amid growing concerns over the country’s economic hardship.

Today, commuters travelling the Abuja-Keffi Expressway from the Nasarawa axis were met with unexpected roadblocks, the same with those moving along the Abuja-Kogi axis.

Military officers set up a stop-and-search operation, causing significant delays for those heading into the capital.

The roadblock, located at the Sani Abacha Barracks before the A-Y-A bridge, resulted in a major traffic jam that stretched as far as the Nyanya Bridge.

The sudden military presence caught many by surprise, as no prior information was given by security agencies.

This unannounced checkpoint left many civil servants and traders, who commute daily from satellite towns such as Nyanya, Karu, Maraba, Masaka, Keffi, Gwagwalada, Abaji, and Kwali areas almost stranded.

After hours stuck in traffic, numerous frustrated commuters chose to return home.

Abuja has seen significant traffic disruptions due to heightened security measures in key areas.

Increased security presence around Dei Dei, near Zuma Rock, has led to a partial blockage of the road entering the city, resulting in severe traffic congestion.

Similar conditions are reported along Airport Road near the University of Abuja main gate, where traffic flow has been impacted by the increased security.

Additionally, traffic jams have been observed along Suleja Road leading into the city, where military and police personnel have set up checkpoints.

These measures come as part of broader efforts to enhance security as the protest date approaches.

On its part, the federal government and other stakeholders are urging the organisers to engage in a peaceful protest.

They warn that the protest could exacerbate the already fragile economic situation if it turns violent or is hijacked by clandestine groups.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, highlighted the dangers of violent demonstrations, as the nation braces for planned protests.

In a statement signed by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, the IGP stressed the importance of maintaining peace and order during such events.

“It is not only in Nigeria that there is hardship. It is a global meltdown. Is the government doing anything about it? Yes! This is what a responsive government will do,” Egbetokun stated.

He acknowledged the widespread economic challenges but emphasised that the government is actively working to alleviate the impact on citizens.

Reflecting on the 2020 EndSARS protests, the IGP warned about the repercussions of destructive actions.

“Where police stations were burnt down, criminals took over. Arms looted were in the wrong hands, and armed robbers took over. Women could no longer walk freely once it was 7 pm,” he recalled.

He underscored that the destruction of police infrastructure can lead to a breakdown in law and order, leaving communities vulnerable to crime.

Egbetokun noted that there are enough lessons to learn from previous violent protests in Nigeria, urging citizens to remember the chaos and suffering that followed such events.

He highlighted the potential dangers of unchecked demonstrations, including loss of life, property damage, and widespread fear.

The IGP affirmed the right to protest, stating, “The right to protest is a right to peaceful protest.”

He urged all Nigerians to exercise this right responsibly and avoid actions that could escalate into violence.

Peaceful protests, he noted, are a powerful tool for expressing grievances without endangering lives and properties.

The IGP also reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to protecting citizens’ rights while maintaining law and order.

He called on all Nigerians to cooperate with the Police to ensure any forthcoming protests are peaceful and orderly.