Condemnations have continued to trail the attack on the “Take-It-Back Movement” protesters in Rivers State on Monday, April 7, 2025, by security operatives in the state.
The South South Coordinator of the movement, Mr. Jonathan Abang-Ugbal, vehemently condemned the act, describing it as insensible and reckless.
Abang-Ugbal noted this in a statement on Monday, titled “Condemnation of Brutal Suppression of the ‘Repeal the Cybercrimes Act”.
His words, “the Take It Back Movement strongly condemns the violent, and insensible attack of peaceful protesters by combined forces of the military and police near the CFC junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday.
“The excessive and reckless force used by the security agencies who are supposed to serve the public diligently led to patriotic Nigerians sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
“The State Coordinator of the movement, Mr Amanyie King and the Niger Delta Congress President, Nubari Sataah, sustained serious injuries and are receiving medical care while dozens remain unaccounted for.”
Abang-Ugbal explained that “the protest is part of a broader campaign to draw attention to the deliberate misuse of the CyberCrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, as amended, to suppress dissent and harass citizens.
“The use of live ammunition, teargas, and brutality against unarmed and peaceful protesters is a blatant display of the running (not ruling please) class’s despotic tendencies and the heinous act is a stark reminder of the lengths to which these privileged fellow countrymen and women who buffet on our commonwealth a la carte while masturbating in the corridors of power, will go to silence dissenting voices.
“Indeed, the Cybercrimes Act has become a tool for oppressors to stifle free speech, silence dissent and crush the common man.”
He further urged Nigerians to recognize the gravity of the situation, stand in solidarity with the Movement, join the campaign to repeal the Cybercrimes Act, and demand a just and equitable society.
“The right to peaceful protest is fundamental to any democracy, and it’s imperative that we protect this right. The time for silence and indifference is over, it is time for collective action. Indeed, a people united, can never be defeated.”
On behalf of the movement, Abang-Ugbal demanded the immediate repeal of the cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act and accountability for security agencies, especially the Nigerian Police Force Protection of Citizens’ Rights.
