A dramatic scene unfolded in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, today as police, accompanied by suspected political thugs, forcibly dispersed protesters gathered for the October 1 demonstration. The crackdown began early at the popular Pleasure Park along the Port Harcourt-Aba Expressway, with stern-looking officers preventing protesters from assembling. Media personnel were also barred from capturing photos or videos of the incident, sparking concerns about press freedom.
Despite the initial disruption, determined protesters attempted to regroup at the Rumuola area but were once again dispersed by police. A heavy police presence remains at both locations and other potential gathering points. As of now, the protesters have not regrouped at any known venue to resume their demonstration.
The Rivers State Police Command had warned residents to avoid activities threatening peace during the 64th Independence Day celebration. Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu pledged adequate security and deployed officers to key locations.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the command acknowledged its awareness of the scheduled October 1 protest and urged residents to refrain from participating in activities disrupting lawful proceedings and infringing on law-abiding citizens' rights.
The statement read: “In light of the upcoming ‘October 1 nationwide protest’ associated with the hashtag #FearlessInOctober, scheduled for October 1, 2024, the Rivers State Police Command wishes to express its awareness of the situation.
“We urge all residents to refrain from participating in activities that may disrupt lawful proceedings and infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens in Rivers State.
“It is vital that the peace we currently enjoy is not compromised, as recent events have demonstrated that protests can be exploited by individuals or criminal elements intent on causing disruption, often leading to regrettable incidents within our community.
“To uphold law and order and ensure the safety of all residents, the Commissioner of Police has deployed officers to strategic locations throughout the state. These measures are not intended to instil fear but to safeguard lives and property, maintain law and order, and ensure the free movement of vehicles.”
Meanwhile, the protest has currently kicked off at different locations in the country. The one at Federal Capital Territory Abuja (FCT) began at 7 am at the Utako market with security agents mounting roadblocks to control the flow of the protest.
