Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused security operatives of launching an unprovoked attack on peaceful protesters during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu rally in Abuja.
In an interview on Channels Television’s programme, ‘The Morning Brief,’ Sowore alleged that security forces opened fire shortly after the protest began at the front of the Transcorp Hilton Abuja.
According to Sowore, the protest was orderly and peaceful, with no provocation from the demonstrators. However, he said that security operatives suddenly started shooting tear gas and live bullets at the crowd.
“There were about 10 trucks that arrived as soon as we started the protest. There was no provocation on our part, like we had promised, it was an orderly and peaceful protest,” he said.
He confirmed that several individuals were arrested during the incident, including Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and his lawyer. Sowore claimed they were beaten before being taken to the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command.
“Eventually, they did arrest some people. I heard Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother was arrested and beaten, and his lawyer was also arrested and beaten. They’ve all been taken to the FCT Command,” he added.
Sowore expressed concern over the violent response to what was meant to be a peaceful demonstration calling for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
The protest had been scheduled to take place around the Transcorp Hilton and other parts of the Federal Capital Territory but was disrupted early by security forces who fired tear gas canisters to disperse protesters and bystanders.
Security agencies had deployed personnel across key locations in Abuja, including the Three Arms Zone, Eagle Square, Federal Secretariat, and routes leading to Aso Rock, as part of heightened security measures.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions from various groups, with human rights advocates condemning the use of force and calling for the protection of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
