August 1, 2024 – Despite court orders restricting protest locations, demonstrators in Lagos and Abuja defied the directives, leading to violent clashes and disruptions.
In Lagos, protesters gathered at the Lekki toll gate, despite a court order limiting protests to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. Police personnel resisted attempts to turn violent and dispersed the protesters.
In Abuja, protesters marched to Eagle Square, defying a court order restricting them to the MKO Abiola Stadium. Hoodlums took over the protest, blocking roads and extorting motorists.
Reports of violence and looting emerged from Katsina and Yobe states, with curfews imposed in three local government areas in Yobe. Peaceful protests were reported in Ibadan, while fear of gunmen kept residents indoors in Anambra State.
Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State faced embarrassment when offering money to protesters, who rejected the gesture. Protests turned violent in Niger and Borno states, with casualties reported.
Law enforcement agents maintained a presence in Osun State, where protesters demonstrated peacefully.
The protests, organized by the “Take It Back Movement,” aimed to address grievances such as hunger and bad governance. However, the defiance of court orders and subsequent violence have raised concerns about public safety and the rule of law.
