Abuja, Nigeria – April 7, 2025
Chaos erupted in Abuja on Monday as the Nigeria Police Force fired tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters gathered in the Maitama district.
The protest, organized by the Take-It-Back Movement alongside other civil society groups, was aimed at drawing attention to worsening economic conditions, rising insecurity, and concerns over the alleged misuse of Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.
Protesters carried placards and chanted slogans condemning inflation, economic hardship, and political instability—particularly referencing the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, which they described as a
“state of emergency.”
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, was present to show solidarity. Several other prominent activists, including Bosede Imanah and popular protest figure “Flagboy,” were reportedly arrested during the crackdown.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as tense, with peaceful demonstrators fleeing in all directions as officers deployed tear gas canisters. Many criticized the police’s use of force, saying it violated citizens’ rights to free assembly and expression.
“This is a peaceful protest, not a riot,” said one demonstrator who narrowly escaped arrest. “We’re here to demand our rights, not cause violence.”
The Nigerian Police have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident or the arrests made.
This protest reflects a growing wave of public dissatisfaction with governance in Nigeria, as citizens continue to face rising costs of living, job losses, and a lack of public accountability.
