On Friday, during the second day of a nationwide hunger protest in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, a potential clash between protesting youths and the Nigeria Police Force’s counter-terrorism unit was averted.
The tension arose when the police, in multiple patrol trucks, encountered the protesters at Pleasure Park on Aba Road. The police demanded that the protesters clear the road, but the protesters refused, chanting against police violence.
The situation almost escalated until protest leaders intervened, urging calm and compliance with the police’s request. State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, arrived at the scene, commended the protesters for their peaceful behavior, and urged them not to block roads as it infringes on others’ rights. He assured them of protection against intimidation if they maintained their peaceful stance.
In response, a protester emphasized their commitment to a non-violent demonstration, requesting that the police avoid intimidation. The protestors reiterated their demands for the reinstatement of the fuel subsidy, electricity subsidies, and a call for President Bola Tinubu to address the severe economic hardships or consider resignation.