Tanks, police and DSS deployed at Abuja City Gate ahead of Obi-Kwankwaso march
- Soldiers, police, DSS and NSCDC officers were seen at Abuja City Gate ahead of a planned march.
- The march is by supporters of Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, of the NDC.
- Supporters say the march is to demand good governance; the area was cordoned off with armoured tanks.
Security forces were out in force at the Abuja City Gate ahead of a planned mega march by supporters of Peter Obi and his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Daily Post reported that operatives set up barricades and carried out stop-and-search checks at the gate early in the morning. Soldiers, police officers, personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were among those deployed, the outlet said.
Armoured tanks were also stationed at the spot, and the area was cordoned off as of the time Daily Post filed its report.
According to Daily Post, the heavy presence of security is believed to be a precaution against a breakdown of law and order during the march.
Why the march matters
Supporters of Obi and Kwankwaso had announced a joint march in the Federal Capital Territory to press for good governance. For many Nigerians, such gatherings are a way to speak directly to the cost of living, fuel prices, jobs and security — issues that touch every household.
But large crowds in the capital also raise concerns about safety and traffic. The stop-and-search and roadblocks around the City Gate could slow movement for residents and travellers passing through that part of Abuja.
It was not clear from the reports available whether the march would go ahead as planned or how many people were expected.
What happens next
Nigerians should watch for word from the march organisers and from the police on whether the gathering proceeds and how it will be managed. Daily Post said the area remained cordoned off at the time of its report.
