As security personnel blocked important approaches to Eagles Square and the Federal Secretariat on Monday to stop a planned demonstration against the contentious cybercrime law and the proposed emergency rule in Rivers State, tensions erupted in some areas of Abuja.
Due to possible interruptions, the Nigeria Police Force reportedly issued a warning against the protest earlier.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Olumuyiwa Adejobi advised the organizers to think twice, pointing out that the demonstration took place on National Police Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the services of the force.
Before daybreak, highly armed riot police had already set up shop along key thoroughfares, preventing anyone from entering the protest site.
As they attempted to get to their nearby offices, many employees were kept stuck by the early-morning security ban.
Vanguard stated that commuters were compelled to get off their buses and walk under close observation as they tried to reach buildings close to Eagles Square.
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Due to the roadblock, there was a great deal of confusion and traffic jams as cars and pedestrians clogged the roads.
Frustrated commuters were forced to look for alternate routes because police officials were silent about the reasons behind closing major thoroughfares on a workday.
It is unclear how long the security restrictions will be in effect as the situation develops.
