Security Operatives Conduct Stop-and-Search Operations in Abuja Amid Nationwide Protests
Abuja, Nigeria – Security operatives have set up roadblocks on major highways in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, conducting stop-and-search operations on vehicles entering the city. The move comes amid concerns over a proposed nationwide protest scheduled to take place from August 1-10, 2024.
According to eyewitnesses, military and police personnel were seen setting up roadblocks on the Abuja-Keffi and Abuja-Lokoja roads, causing significant delays in vehicular movement. Residents in areas such as Kubwa, Dutse Alhaji, Maraba, and Bwari reported noticing an unusually high number of security vehicles patrolling their neighborhoods.
The security agencies have not provided a reason for the increased presence of their operatives and roadblocks, but it is believed to be related to the planned protests. The protests were declared by some groups and activists in response to the economic hardship experienced by citizens.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had previously stated that the nation’s capital was not available for the protest. To support his position, Wike mobilized some Abuja youths and other stakeholders against joining the planned protest, explaining that the move was to enlighten them on the ills of protests and why they should not be part of it.
The acting spokesperson for the Presidential Guards Brigade, Olokodana Odunayo, promised to get back to our correspondent, while the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen. Edward Buba, and the FCT police spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.
The protests are set to take place from August 1-10, 2024, and the security measures in place are likely to remain in effect until the protests conclude. Residents and commuters are advised to exercise caution and follow all instructions from security personnel.
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