Heavy security presence was observed around the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday morning ahead of a planned protest demanding the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers still being held by terrorists in parts of the country.
Armed soldiers, police officers and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Vigilante Group of Nigeria and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) were deployed to strategic locations around the Villa.
Security personnel mounted checkpoints and erected barricades on major roads leading to the Presidential Villa.
The restrictions affected both pedestrian and vehicular movement, preventing many workers from accessing offices in the area.
The development also caused severe traffic congestion around the Federal Secretariat, National Assembly and Supreme Court corridors, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes.
Many commuters were reportedly stranded as a result of the gridlock.
According to Sahara Reporters, the planned demonstration was called by human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, alongside the Take It Back Movement.
Organisers said the protest was scheduled to commence at Eagle Square before proceeding to the Presidential Villa.
The protest was aimed at demanding the immediate release of schoolchildren, teachers and other victims abducted across different parts of the country.
The organisers also called on President Bola Tinubu to secure the release of the captives or resign over what they described as the government’s failure to adequately protect lives and property.
The planned demonstration comes amid increasing public concern over recurring kidnappings and attacks on schools.
Many Nigerians have continued to demand improved security, safer learning environments and greater accountability from public officials.
As of the time of filing this report, no protest activity had been recorded.
