Amnesty International has expressed grave concern over recent “attacks” on protesters in Abuja and Port Harcourt, as well as the unlawful arrests of activists in Yobe State.
DAILY GAZETTE reports that members of the Take It Back Movement have been protesting in several cities, including Abuja, Lagos, and others, despite repeated warnings from the police.
The movement organized the protests to challenge what they described as the “authoritarianism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, abuse of human rights, and misuse of the Cybercrime Act.”
Despite police warnings that the demonstration should be canceled, citing its timing coinciding with National Police Day and labeling it mischievous, the protesters went ahead with their plans.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers State, protesters gathered at Isaac Boro Park but were met with a heavy police response, which included the firing of tear gas to disperse the crowd before the demonstration gained momentum.
Amnesty International responded to the incident with deep concern, condemning the actions of the security forces as unacceptable.
In a tweet posted on X (formerly Twitter), the organization stated: “Amnesty is deeply concerned by security forces’ attacks on protesters in Abuja and Port Harcourt. Protesters and journalists were beaten in Port Harcourt.”
“In Damaturu, Yobe State, 4 activists have been unlawfully arrested. These atrocities are unacceptable & must be investigated.”
