Following the use of force by police and security agencies against groups protesting hunger and bad governance at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja yesterday, Amnesty International reported that over 50 peaceful protesters were arrested.
Around 11 am, security operatives dispersed protesters by firing multiple tear gas canisters, leading to arrests. Many protesters and journalists fled, with some journalists being detained and later released upon identification, while the protesters were taken away.
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 organization further criticized the use of force, saying, “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 peacefully demand accountability through protests. This right must be respected.”
