Security forces on Monday fired live bullets to disperse #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters in Abuja. The demonstrators, led by the convener of the #RevolutionNow movement and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, had gathered as early as 6:50 a.m. around the headquarters of the Ministry of Women Affairs.
Protesters were heard chanting, “Don’t teargas us! Respect rule of law! We have rights to protest; we’re Nigerians!” when security operatives opened fire.
The combined team, drawn from the Nigerian Police Force, Guards Brigade, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), had maintained a heavy security presence around the Presidential Villa since Sunday.
Armed personnel were stationed at strategic points leading to the Presidential Villa, National Assembly, Court of Appeal, Force Headquarters, and the popular Eagle Square.
Accusing the Federal government of flouting court orders, the crowd tried to march to the Presidential Villa to press home their demand for Kanu’s release, only to be rebuffed with several rounds fired by security operatives, forcing protesters to flee in different directions.
The protesters initially thought the officers would release only teargas canisters, but to their utmost surprise, live ammunition was discharged.
As of the time of writing this report, Armoured Personnel Carriers belonging to the Guards Brigade, police, and DSS were still stationed at the front of the National Assembly complex, Aso Rock Villa gate, Eagle Square and environs.
