As #EndBadGovernance protests looms into day 6, Port Harcourt protesters have resulted in felling trees to block the East-West road axis. In a video circulating online, angry protesters were seen pulling down trees energetically and setting them on fire to block the road and restrict motorists from plying the road, in order for their plights to be heard.
The police authorities alleged that the protesters were involved in various illicit activities, including extortion, vandalism of vehicles, and intimidation of business owners, which contravened the law. On Tuesday, residents in certain areas of Port Harcourt were gripped with anxiety following ominous warnings issued by the protesters the previous day. The protesters had cautioned residents, motorists, and shop owners to either participate in the protest or remain indoors, sparking widespread concern.
In a show of solidarity with the protesters, many shop owners who opened their businesses on Wednesday were seen adorning their premises with branches of trees and leaves, indicating their support for the protest movement. This display of allegiance was likely a precautionary measure to avoid any potential backlash from the protesters, who had demonstrated their willingness to take action against those who refused to comply with their demands. Speaking to thePortCityNews an eye witness claimed that motorists and passengers were forced to hold branches of trees and chant in order to show solidarity to the protesters or risk the chance of being stopped.
The atmosphere remained tense, with residents and business owners walking a fine line between expressing their support for the protest and avoiding any actions that might be perceived as opposition.
watch video at
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/S5Heu3i6YAQiv3Yp/?mibextid=L0MuaQ
