Security forces fired tear gas to break up a demonstration in Abuja on Monday as activists gathered to protest Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and recent political developments.
The protest, organized by the Take-It-Back Movement and civil society groups, drew crowds to Maitama district, where participants carried placards reading “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe.” Demonstrators highlighted concerns including the controversial application of the Cybercrime Act, rising inflation, and the recent state of emergency declaration in Rivers State.
Human rights advocate Omoyele Sowore joined the protest in solidarity before police intervention. Officers dispersed the gathering using tear gas, sending protesters fleeing for safety.
In a Friday statement, Take-It-Back Movement National Coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu described the demonstration as resistance against “increasing authoritarianism” and a demand for economic relief. The incident marks the latest in a series of confrontations between security forces and activists amid Nigeria’s ongoing socioeconomic challenges.
