Stranded residents in Abuja on Monday morning expressed outrage over the heavy security presence and barricades mounted at major entry points into the nation’s capital, a development that resulted in severe traffic congestion across the city.
The security lockdown reportedly left hundreds of commuters from Bwari, Ushafa, Dutse, and parts of Kubwa stuck for hours on their way to the city centre.
The barricades were said to have been set up in anticipation of a planned protest organised by Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, and other activists. The protesters had mobilised to demand the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and were expected to march towards the State House, the official residence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Similar traffic jams were recorded along the Nyanya-Mararaba axis, where security checkpoints brought movement to a standstill.
At the Sokale area, a motorist identified as Usman Jibrin lamented that he had been stuck in one spot for over an hour.
He said, “If people want to go to the Villa, why should it affect those of us living on the outskirts? Are they afraid that people will be brought in this morning for the protest? This is pure punishment, and God is watching everyone involved.”
The situation caused widespread frustration among workers and residents who struggled to reach their destinations, as the capital city came to a near standstill under tightened security measures.
