There was a heavy security presence around the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday morning following reports of a planned protest over the continued abduction of schoolchildren and teachers by terrorist groups in different parts of Nigeria.
Security operatives including soldiers, police officers, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Vigilante Group of Nigeria, and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) were deployed across key access points leading to the Villa.
Authorities mounted checkpoints and barricades on major roads, restricting both vehicular and pedestrian movement and limiting access for workers in the area.
The security measures also led to severe traffic congestion around the Federal Secretariat, National Assembly, and Supreme Court axis, leaving many commuters stranded and forcing motorists to divert to alternative routes.
The protest was reportedly organised by human rights activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, in collaboration with the Take It Back Movement.
According to Sahara Reporters, the demonstration was scheduled to begin at Eagle Square before moving toward the Presidential Villa.
Organisers said the protest was aimed at demanding the immediate release of abducted pupils, teachers, and other victims held in captivity across the country.
They also urged President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action to secure the release of the captives or resign, accusing the government of failing in its responsibility to protect lives and property.
The planned protest comes amid rising public concern over persistent school kidnappings and worsening insecurity, with citizens increasingly calling for stronger security measures and accountability from authorities.
As of the time of filing this report, no protest activity had yet commenced.
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