Amnesty International has reported that over 50 protesters were arrested in Abuja during the third day of Nigeria’s #EndBadGovernance protests. The protests, which began on August 1, aimed to address Nigeria’s rising cost of living and unstable policies.
The protesters in Abuja were restricted from using the Eagle Square for their gatherings. Later confined to Moshood Abiola National Stadium, tensions escalated when police fired tear gas and masked operatives believed to be from the Department of State Services (DSS) forcefully caused protesters to disperse. Eyewitnesses reported shootings and violent arrests, including journalists who were later released.
Amnesty condemned the crackdown, demanding the immediate release of those detained and accountability for the use of force against peaceful protesters.
In a tweet on X, Amnesty International stated,
“The Nigerian authorities must immediately end the ongoing violent crackdown on peaceful protesters who convened at Moshood Abiola Stadium Abuja. The over 50 peaceful protesters arbitrarily arrested across the FCT must be released immediately and unconditionally.
“The shocking and unconscionable use of deadly force on protesters against hunger in the FCT is unacceptable. Those suspected of responsibility must be held to account. People have the right to demand accountability through protests peacefully. This right must be respected,” they added.
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