In order to stop a planned protest against the contentious cybercrime law and the proposed emergency rule in Rivers State, security personnel blocked off important roads to Eagles Square and the Federal Secretariat on Monday, causing tension in several areas of Abuja.
According to reports, the Nigeria Police Force had previously issued a warning against the protest due to possible disturbances.
Assistant Commissioner Olumuyiwa Adejobi, a police spokeswoman, advised the organizers to change their minds, pointing out that the demonstration took place on National Police Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the services of the force.
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Access to the demonstration site was already blocked by highly armed riot police, who had already parked their cars across key routes before sunrise.
Many employees were left stranded as they attempted to get to their nearby offices during the early morning security crackdown.
Commuters trying to reach buildings close to Eagles Square were reportedly made to get off their buses and walk under close observation, according to Vanguard.
Roads were clogged with cars and pedestrians as a result of the obstruction, which caused widespread confusion and severe traffic jams.
Disgruntled commuters were forced to look for alternate routes since police officials would not explain why they were closing major thoroughfares on a workday.
Uncertainty surrounds the duration of the security restrictions as the scenario develops.
