Protest: Abeokuta remains calm

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Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, remained largely peaceful on Thursday, August 1, 2024, with no signs of protests related to the #EndBadGovernance movement, which was scheduled to begin nationwide on this date.

The Nigerian Tribune reported that an Ogun State High Court had, on Wednesday, issued an injunction restricting protesters to four designated gathering points: MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ansarudeen Primary School in Ado-Odo/Ota, Remo Divisional High School in Sagamu, and Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode.

Our correspondent observed a heavy security presence around major areas in Abeokuta. Shops, markets, and financial institutions were closed for business.

A combined security team, including the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police, and NSCDC, was strategically deployed to key locations such as Panseke, Ibara Roundabout, OPIC Roundabout, Oke-Ilewo, NNPC Roundabout, and MKO Abiola Stadium.

The State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, arrived at MKO Abiola Stadium around 10:05 am and addressed the security team on the importance of ensuring resident safety and protecting public property. He emphasised the need for orderly conduct by the officers and provided clarity on the court order:

“From what we have seen on the ground, there is no indication of any protest as we speak. However, it is important to note that late yesterday evening, a court order was received restricting protesters to certain locations. For the Abeokuta metropolis, Moshood Abiola Stadium is the designated point.

“We have to respect citizens’ rights. Our concern is to prevent miscreants from hijacking this protest. Fortunately, many organisers have recognised the untimeliness of conducting protests at this moment and have voluntarily withdrawn.

“The whole atmosphere is calm; people are going about their legitimate businesses. We will maintain our position here to see if anyone or any group will come out. If they do, we will allow them to exercise their constitutional rights within the stadium complex. We will provide cover for them and ensure they disperse peacefully. However, we strongly oppose any attempts by miscreants to disrupt the peace through vandalism and looting.

“Everyone has the right to participate or not participate in the protests. Those who choose not to participate should be allowed to continue their legitimate activities without disruption. Our role is to maintain peace and order and to support every law-abiding citizen wishing to conduct their business safely.”

Similarly, the State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commandant David Ojelabi, addressed the situation in Ogun State and provided updates on the protest status.

Ojelabi stated:

“I have gone out to the nooks and crannies of Abeokuta metropolis, and I also have information from all three Senatorial Districts. As far as Abeokuta is concerned, no protest is taking place anywhere at the moment.

“The only place where we have seen some protest activities in Ogun State is in Ijebu Ode, specifically at the Ibadan garage, where about 20 individuals are currently gathering and protesting peacefully.

“My message to all indigenes of Ogun State is to continue with their daily activities. All filling stations and shops are open. Initially, many shops were closed in the early hours of the day, but as of now, they are open and conducting normal business. Motorists are moving freely, and there has been no molestation. Ogun State has always been a peaceful state.

“I addressed the combined forces of the police, civil defence, and military this morning. We are working as an indivisible national force in synergy and collaboration.”

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