Security operatives on Monday fired tear gas to disperse traders and protesters near Eda Plaza, a popular building materials market in Abuja, as tensions flared during a demonstration calling for the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The incident occurred around the Habitat area along Jabi Road, where police confronted groups said to be participating in a peaceful protest organised by pro-democracy activists, including Omoyele Sowore. Witnesses told SaharaReporters that officers fired several rounds of tear gas indiscriminately, forcing traders and customers to flee.
“The police just started shooting tear gas everywhere. Even people who were not part of the protest were affected. Inside the plaza, everyone was choking—people were falling, children were crying,” said a trader identified as Emeka.
The chaotic scene led to multiple injuries and fainting incidents as smoke filled the market. Businesses were forced to close abruptly while security vehicles blocked major roads, sealing off the area. Another detachment of armed officers later stormed the nearby Jabi Building Materials Market, ordering traders to shut down immediately.
Earlier in the day, police had also fired tear gas in Maitama, dispersing passersby and commuters even before protesters gathered at their planned meeting point. “There were no protesters yet, just regular people going about their business when suddenly tear gas started flying everywhere,” an eyewitness said.
By midday, soldiers, police, and Department of State Services (DSS) operatives had taken control of key areas of the Federal Capital Territory, including the Three Arms Zone, Eagle Square, and Unity Fountain.
The crackdown followed a police warning issued on Sunday against planned demonstrations near restricted areas. Protesters, however, accused the government of defying court orders that granted Nnamdi Kanu’s release, vowing to continue their campaign for his freedom.