In addition to ignoring President Bola Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast appeal for calm, a group of protesters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, have gone as far as threatening business owners. On Monday, a handful of protesters, including children, took to the streets, specifically Aggrey Road and Station Road, insisting that the President meet their demands.
The protesters, dressed in various costumes and carrying tree branches, marched through major roads, chanting anti-government songs. However, their demonstration took a threatening turn when they began issuing ultimatums to residents, shop owners, and motorists.
The protesters warned that starting Tuesday, all residents must join them in the protest or remain indoors. They also expressed discontent that many others chose to go about their normal activities, with offices and shops open for business.
Some protesters called for the removal of federal government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. Others demanded an end to Tantita, a surveillance company protecting oil and gas facilities in the region.
The protesters also sang the old National Anthem and received solidarity from motorists at an NNPC filling station. Policemen were present, escorting and monitoring the protesters’ activities.
Similar protests were reported at the Eastern Bypass and Aba Road, with protesters expressing frustration that businesses remained open, perceiving it as a lack of solidarity.
In pidgin English, the protesters warned, “We dey do protest, you dey do your business, tomorrow you better not open your shops, if you open you will see what will happen.”
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Meanwhile, another group of protesters blocked the Akpajo section of East-West Road near Indorama Petrochemical gate in Eleme Local Government Area, stopping motorists and continuing their 10-day protest for better governance.
Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command escorted the protesters, who did not attack residents or businesses. Most vehicles in the state capital displayed plucked leaves, indicating solidarity with the protests.
