Amnesty International Nigeria has raised alarm over reports of security forces attempting to suppress peaceful demonstrations in Abuja, where protesters are demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra.
This is as the Nigeria Police Force has defended its use of tear gas, stating security operatives only fired at protesters who were marching toward Aso Rock, where the presidential villa is located.
According to earlier report police officers fired tear gas canisters to disperse protesters around the Maitama area, forcing them to regroup at Utako to continue their demonstration.
But armed operatives again moved in and dispersed them, creating panic, and forcing commuters, traders, and motorists to run for safety.
Reacting in a statement on its X handle, Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the actions, stating that any attempt to undermine freedom of assembly is illegal and reflects an unacceptable intolerance of peaceful protest.
It said, “Amnesty International receives disturbing reports of attempts to crackdown on peaceful protests holding in Abuja, calling for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
“People must be allowed to freely exercise their right to peaceful protest.
“Any act capable of undermining freedom of assembly is illegal and portrays unacceptable intolerance of peaceful dissent.”
The organisation has called for an immediate end to the crackdown and urged authorities to address the protesters’ grievances.
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