#EndBadGovernance: Thugs Harass Journalist, Attack Protesters in Rivers State

On Wednesday, Day 7 of the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, a journalist from Channels Television was harassed by thugs while attempting to cover the event in Port Harcourt. Deborah Agbalam reported that a group of thugs had positioned themselves directly opposite the Federal Secretariat, intimidating and driving away protesters.

Witnesses stated that before Agbalam’s arrival, two protesters had been beaten while police officers stood by and did nothing. Agbalam herself was surrounded and threatened by the thugs, who declared their intent to prevent any protest activity.

The Federal Secretariat on the Port Harcourt/Aba Express Road has been a key gathering point for the protesters throughout the seven days of demonstrations against hunger and bad governance.

The inaction of over 20 police officers who witnessed the harassment raises serious concerns about the security and protection of the right to protest in Rivers State. When contacted, Rivers State Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu expressed concern over the incident, promising a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences.

Commissioner Disu, who has visited the protest sites multiple times in recent days, has previously assured that his officers would maintain professionalism and ensure peace and order among the protesters. He even offered light refreshments to the peaceful protesters as a gesture of goodwill.

Despite these assurances, Wednesday’s events highlight ongoing tensions and the challenges faced by those advocating for change. The nationwide protests, which have turned violent in some northern states, continue to draw attention to issues of governance and civil rights in Nigeria.