JUST IN: After Denying Hunger Protesters Access, Government Supporters Take Over Eagle Square

Supporters of President Bola Tinubu’s administration assembled at Eagle Square in Abuja on Monday to oppose the upcoming nationwide protest against the current economic conditions in Nigeria.

The pro-government demonstration attracted women from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The event highlighted the administration’s stance on the economic situation and demonstrated public backing for the government.

In contrast, organizers of the planned protest, set to begin on August 1, have faced challenges in securing access to Eagle Square. Damilare Adenola, Mobilization Director for the Take It Back Movement, expressed determination to hold the protest at the venue, regardless of official approval.

Adenola revealed on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics that a request had been submitted to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike for use of the square. The letter, dated July 26, 2024, was also shared on social media. However, as of Saturday, Wike claimed he had not received the request.

Wike criticized the application process, stating, “Applications must be made properly, and security costs must be covered to address any potential damage. The request must be formal, and existing bookings cannot be overridden.”

Adenola attributed the delay to bureaucratic issues but assured that the letter would be delivered to the minister by Monday.