As a way to forestall a breakdown of legislation and order by Nigerians protesting towards starvation and {economic} hardship, military and law enforcement officials have taken over totally different components of Abuja.
Blueprint reporter, who visited totally different components of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), noticed that the combat-ready safety brokers have been stationed at strategic areas of town.
From Bwari Space Council, Military and law enforcement officials, who have been armed to the tooth, have been sighted in {groups} at Tipper Storage Junction, Police Signboard, Sokale, Dutsen Alhaji Market, Dutse Junction Bridge, Citec, Dawaki Junction, Galadima and Gwarinpa Junction.
Apparently, the ever-busy roads have been bereft of vehicular motion as many residents of town most popular to remain indoors, for concern of the unknown.
Safety officers have been equally sighted stationed at Jahi junction, Katampe, Ministers Hill, Nicon junction, Bannex and Berger roundabout.
Talking with Blueprint, a commuter, who recognized herself as Blessing, mentioned that she hitherto had fears of operating into protesters on her solution to work, however has been reassured by the presence of menacing safety brokers.
“I didn’t wish to go to work in the present day, however there’s no excuse to overlook work in my group, so I needed to brace myself for any eventuality. With the stress created within the media, I’m stunned that I didn’t see anybody protesting any-where from Bwari the place I stay to Gwarinpa the place I work.
“In truth, I like how the harmful trying safety brokers have taken over totally different components of the street. From the look on their faces, they are going to quell any bother even earlier than it begins. Although I’m dissatisfied that many individuals have prevented coming in the present day as a result of Dutsen Alhaji Market was nonetheless locked as of 8:10am, with solely few folks ready on the gate.
“Additionally, there are few drivers on the street, which can make transportation troublesome for individuals who don’t have automobiles. However, I wish to advise anybody who desires to return out to take action as a result of the troopers and law enforcement officials should not harassing anybody Simply come out do no matter you need peacefully and nobody will disturb you.”
Additionally talking with our reporter, a taxi driver, who recognized himself as Adebayo, mentioned the street was unusually dry and that he was compelled to lift his fare due to lack of passengers and the place to purchase gasoline.
“If I don’t see passengers earlier than afternoon, I’ll should go residence as a result of I can’t be losing my gasoline. The roads are dry, so I added N200 for these going to Berger as a result of I can’t take just one or two folks there on the regular worth. I don’t know why persons are speaking about protest, it gained’t change something. The policemen will simply shoot you and that would be the finish,” he mentioned.
Blueprint stories that filling stations, banks and different institutions from Bwari to Gwarinpa have been closed to the general public as solely safety brokers have been sighted standing in entrance of various the gates.
Recall {that a} Excessive Court docket of the Federal Capital Territory, Wednesday, ordered protesters to limit their actions to the Moshood Abiola Stadium solely.
The courtroom’s determination was made because of issues about potential disruptions to public peace and security by protesters.
Safety agencts have been equally directed by the Inspector Common of Police to offer sufficient safety throughout the stadium throughout the protest.