Breaking News: Police Deploy Teargas Against Protesters at Federal Secretariat in Abuja

Newslens NG reports that chaos erupted this morning at the Federal Secretariat in Abuja as police fired teargas at protesters participating in the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria demonstrations.

The incident underscores the escalating tensions between security forces and citizens demanding governmental reforms and greater accountability.

Eyewitnesses reported that the protest, which had started peacefully, quickly descended into turmoil as heavily armed police units confronted the demonstrators. The protesters, who had gathered to voice their discontent over issues such as corruption, poor governance, and economic hardships, were met with force as officers discharged canisters of teargas into the crowd.

“I came here to peacefully protest and make my voice heard,” said one demonstrator who preferred to remain anonymous. “But the moment we started chanting and marching, the police began shooting teargas at us. It was chaos—people were running, coughing, and trying to find safety.”

Videos circulating on social media show scenes of confusion and distress, with protesters scattering in various directions to escape the acrid smoke. Several individuals were seen assisting those who were overcome by the gas, while others continued to raise their voices despite the oppressive atmosphere.

The police, in a brief statement, justified their actions by claiming they were necessary to disperse an “unlawful assembly” and to prevent any potential breach of peace. They reiterated their commitment to maintaining public order and urged citizens to refrain from participating in unauthorized protests.

Newslens NG gathered that Human rights activists and advocacy groups have condemned the use of force against peaceful protesters. “The excessive use of teargas against citizens exercising their constitutional rights is unacceptable,” said a spokesperson from the Human Rights Advocacy Group. “We call on the authorities to respect the rights of Nigerians to peaceful assembly and to engage in dialogue rather than repression.”

The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, which draws inspiration from the #EndSARS protests, aims to tackle systemic issues within the Nigerian government. The deployment of teargas today at the Federal Secretariat marks a significant moment in the ongoing struggle between citizens seeking reform and a government determined to maintain control.

As the situation develops, the resolve of the Nigerian populace to demand better governance appears unshaken. Protests are expected to continue in various locations across the country despite the crackdown.