Tension gripped parts of Abuja on Monday as security operatives fired tear gas canisters to disperse protesters — including human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore — who had gathered to demand the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The demonstration, tagged #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow, was scheduled to take off from the Transcorp Hilton area and spread to other parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). However, before the crowd could fully assemble, police operatives stormed the venue, firing several rounds of tear gas to scatter protesters and passersby.
Eyewitnesses said officers had earlier cordoned off the Transcorp Hilton and surrounding streets, tightening security and creating tension across the city.
Our correspondent observed a heavy presence of soldiers, police, and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at strategic points, including the Three Arms Zone, Eagle Square, Federal Secretariat, Unity Fountain, and routes leading to Aso Rock — all in apparent anticipation of the protest.
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