#EndBadGovernance: Clashes between police and protesters averted in Port-Harcourt

A potentially explosive confrontation between protesting youths and the Nigerian Police’s anti-terrorism unit was averted on Friday, the second day of nationwide hunger protests.

Trouble began when officers, who were showing off their force along Aba Street, confronted protesters at Recreation Park. Police demanded that the youths leave the street, but they refused, chanting “No! No! How many people will the police kill?”

Tensions rose as armed members got out of their trucks, but protest leaders intervened, urging youths to clear the streets, and calm was restored.

Also Read: Police Release #EndBadGovernance Protesters in Lagos

Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu arrived at the scene and commended the protesters for their peaceful conduct. He appealed to them not to block roads, stressing their right to protest while respecting the rights of others.

Disu assured the protesters that they would not be intimidated or harassed as long as they remained peaceful, and left the Deputy Commissioner of Police to monitor the situation.

He said, “I must commend you for being peaceful and well-behaved since yesterday when this protest started. You have the right to protest, but please do not do anything that will disturb public order and do not violate the rights of other citizens.

“I have a request. Please don’t block the road. Don’t block the road. If you do, you are violating the rights of other people who are using the road.

“I will entrust the Deputy Commissioner of Police to you and I assure you that no one and no officer will intimidate or harass you as long as you continue to behave peacefully and orderly.”

#EndBadGovernance: Police-protesters clash averted in Port-Harcourt first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.