Hunger Protest: One Feared Dead as Security Forces Clash with Demonstrators in Abuja

Armed security operatives clashed with protesters marching towards Eagle Square from the MKO Abiola National Stadium. The clash occurred at the Central Business District junction near the United Nations building at 12:55 pm, where security forces fired teargas to disperse the crowd. Reports indicate that one protester was shot while attempting to escape and is feared dead.

The protest began at 12:39 pm, with demonstrators regrouping at the MKO Abiola National Stadium by 1:50 pm, where they engaged in a heated exchange with security forces. The protesters issued warnings against the use of excessive force and demanded that President Tinubu address their grievances.

The demonstrators are calling for the reinstatement of fuel subsidies to reduce petrol prices and an end to corruption in the subsidy regime. As they marched, they chanted slogans such as “End Bad Government” and “Bring Back Subsidy.”

Earlier in the day, protesters had gathered at various locations across Abuja, including the Berger Roundabout in Wuse Zone 6, from as early as 9:06 am before converging on the MKO Abiola Stadium. The presence of a helicopter flying over the stadium added to the tension in the area.

Security forces from the Army Headquarters Garrison Command, NSCDC, and DSS were present at the scene. The FCT Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, also visited the area earlier in the day to assess the situation.