The nationwide hardship/hunger protest which started today, August 1, 2024 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja could not record any serious impact at the city centre as the protesters were denied entrance into the presidential villa, by some heavily fortified policemen deployed to ensure the safety and security of all citizens in the FCT.
The 10-day protest which was organised by the “Take It Back Movement”, was against some obnoxious policies of the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, that are seemingly suffocating the citizens.
Prior to today, the government had called the organisers to the dialogue table, noting that protests are an integral part of democracy, but that no government will condone demonstrations that lead to the destruction of lives and property.
However, the call was rejected as the organisers vowed to proceed with the protest as planned.
TheFact Daily reports that the protest started as early as 9am on Thursday from the Moshood Abiola National Stadium because of the court order issued on Wednesday which restricted the protest to the Abuja stadium.
Justice Sylvanus Oriji of the Federal High Court, Abuja, following an ex-parte application brought before the court by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, of the plot to invade the Presidential Villa and cause some damages, ordered that the stadium be exclusively used for the protest to prevent any issues.
However, after gathering in front of the stadium, the protesters summoned courage and started marching towards the Presidential Villa.
They were however, resisted by the armed policemen stationed at the Head of Service who were seen firing teargas to disperse them.
After hours of struggle, the situation that many feared could result in violence was peacefully brought under control.
Meanwhile, the situation was not the same with Kano state, as the state governor, Abba Yusuf imposed a 24 hours curfew in the state over looting during the protest.
The governor lamented that what started as a peaceful protest was later hijacked by hoodlums and thugs trying to unleash mayhem in the state.
According to him, the decision was reached after meeting with the traditional leaders in the state, including the four Emirs to ensure dialogue.
“Our goal was to facilitate a peaceful dialogue with the protesters, and in the morning, I received the protesters and received their message.
“While I commend those who conducted themselves peacefully, however, the protest was hijacked by thugs and hoodlums who went on looting properties and maiming innocent lives, aided by the enemies of the state”, he said.
