Day 7: Thugs beat up protesters, harass journalists in Rivers

Thugs on Wednesday reportedly beat up some protesters that converged at the Federal Secretariat in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital for the #EndBadGovernance in Nigeria protest.

Metronetworknews gathered that the hoodlums positioned themselves opposite the Secretariat, intimidating and attacking the protesters, despite the heavy presence of policemen.

The thugs were said to have harrassed a journalist while attempting to cover the protest.

It was learnt that two protesters were mercilessly beaten by the thugs who told anyone that cares to listen that they were there to ensure no protest takes place.

It was also learnt that some groups under the aegis of Voice of Concerned Citizens had to hurriedly disperse the protesters.

Some of them who spoke to newsmen in an interview said their action followed the hijacking of the protest by hoodlums who took advantage of the protest to harass motorists, and members of the public and loot from shops.

They added that the initial purpose of the protest had been defeated by the actions of the hoodlums and that they will not allow such to continue in the state.

The Federal Secretariat has been a muster point for the protesters for the past seven days of the nationwide hunger protest.

Meanwhile, South-South Youths initiative has condemned the violence perpetrated by thugs.

A statement by the National President, COMR. Imeabe Saviour Oscar, called on security agencies to bring the perpetrators to book.

”We call on the government and security agencies to recognize the genuineness of our hunger protest and support our peaceful movement.

”We condemn the ongoing looting and violence perpetrated by enemies of the protest who seek to discredit our cause. We urge the authorities to distinguish between our non-violent protest and the criminal activities of those who seek to hijack our movement.

”We demand protection for our peaceful protesters and accountability for those who perpetrate violence and looting. Let us work together to ensure that our voices are heard and our demands for justice and change.

“We urge the Federal Government of Nigeria to promptly address the demands of the genuine protest, which seeks justice, equality, and reform. It is essential to recognize the legitimacy of the protesters’ grievances and engage in constructive dialogue to find solutions. Encouraging counter-protests or using force to disperse peaceful demonstrators only exacerbates the situation and undermines the democratic process. Instead, we call on the government to; acknowledge the protesters’ demands and commit to meaningful reforms, establish a clear timeline for implementing changes,engage in open and inclusive dialogue with protest leaders and representatives, ensure the safety and protection of all peaceful protesters, refrain from sponsoring or encouraging counter-protests that may lead to violence and division.

”By taking these steps, the government can demonstrate its commitment to listening to the voices of its citizens and addressing the pressing issues that have sparked the protests. Let us work together towards a more just, equitable, and peaceful Nigeria.

”We totally condemn the idea of a counter-protest and instead demand that the government address the legitimate demands of the protesters. It’s unacceptable to try to silence or intimidate those who are peacefully exercising their rights. Moreover, Nigerian youths should not allow themselves to be used as tools to victimize each other, especially in a matter that directly affects their own lives.

”Instead of dividing ourselves, we should stand in solidarity and support each other’s struggles for a better future. The government must listen to the voices of the protesters and work towards meaningful reforms that address the grievances of all Nigerians.

”Let us not be distracted by attempts to divide us, but rather focus on the common goal of building a more just and equitable society for all. We stand with the protesters and demand that the government takes concrete steps to address their demands”, the statement reads.

Thugs on Wednesday reportedly beat up some protesters that converged at the Federal Secretariat in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital for the #EndBadGovernance in Nigeria protest.

Metronetworknews gathered that the hoodlums positioned themselves opposite the Secretariat, intimidating and attacking the protesters, despite the heavy presence of policemen.