In multiple videos and images seen by SaharaReporters on social media, armed security operatives together with armoured tanks have occupied Eagle Square, the proposed venue for the protest in Abuja.
Nigerian Army has deployed scores of armed soldiers and armoured tanks to strategic locations and areas in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja as the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest draws nearer.
In multiple videos and images seen by SaharaReporters on social media, armed security operatives together with armoured tanks have occupied Eagle Square, the proposed venue for the protest in Abuja.
It was also learned that the soldiers have also set up a roadblock at Sani Abacha Barracks before the popular AYA roundabout in the Federal Capital Territory.
SaharaReporters learnt that this was done without any prior notice to road users and commuters.
This roadblock is said to have caused a gridlock extending as far as Nyanya Bridge, more than 12 kilometres from the checkpoint.
Civil servants and traders who work in the FCT live outside the city centre in places such as Nyanya, Karu, Maraba and Masaka.
After hours of being stranded without any hope of progress, many of them were forced to return home.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, had urged the Nigerian government not to allow the planned nationwide protest to take place.
The lawmaker made the call while speaking on Arise TV last Thursday, saying the protest would spread across Africa if it is allowed to happen in Nigeria on August 1, 2024.
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