Protest: Abeokuta remains calm

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many organisers have recognised the untimeliness of conducting protests at this moment and have voluntarily withdrawn.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.”