In an intense show of force early Monday, security operatives locked down key areas of central Abuja, cutting off access to the Eagles Square and the Federal Secretariat. The move was a preemptive measure by authorities amid reports of planned demonstrations opposing the revised cybercrime legislation and political tensions in Rivers State.
By dawn, riot police had sealed off major entry points using heavy-duty vehicles, effectively paralyzing movement around the Federal Capital Territory’s core administrative zone. The blockade caught many commuters off guard, especially civil servants heading to work.
Individuals attempting to reach their offices near the Eagles Square were met with road closures and were ordered to disembark from commercial buses. Under heavy security surveillance, they were made to walk the remaining distance on foot.
The disruptions caused major traffic snarls as vehicles built up along alternative routes. The usually bustling morning flow was replaced by long queues and confused crowds, struggling to navigate the sudden change.
No formal explanation has been given by police regarding the extent of the shutdown or why such drastic measures were implemented during working hours.
“This is unacceptable. Blocking workers from accessing their offices because of a peaceful protest sends the wrong message,” said one frustrated commuter.
The protests, which were expected to challenge recent government actions, have been met with increased resistance by security agencies in recent times, raising questions about the government’s tolerance for dissent.
