From Molly Kilete, Abuja
Chaos erupted in Abuja on Monday when operatives of the Nigeria Police Force arrested two protesters shortly after firing tear gas canisters at a growing demonstration in the Federal Capital Territory.
The police action sparked panic, forcing protesters and journalists covering the event to flee for safety.
Sources confirmed that the two protesters were chased and apprehended by police. Rex Elanu, a protest leader in Abuja, identified them to journalists as Bosede, a female protester, and another demonstrator known as “Flagboy.” “Our protest was violently dispersed. Bosede and Flagboy have been arrested. Flagboy is the one you saw carrying the Nigerian flag,” Elanu said.
The protest is part of a nationwide movement highlighting economic hardship, alleged government repression, and rising insecurity across Nigeria.