Protesters block major Abuja road over kidnapping, killings

A protest against widespread insecurity entered its third day on Saturday in Nigeria’s capital city, Abuja.

The protesters, demanding improved security, blocked a bridge on the Karu-Nyanya expressway, which links Nasarawa State and Abuja.

Wielding placards and chanting anti-government songs, they called on the government to live up to its responsibility of protecting lives. They first converged on a bridge in the axis before marching towards Nyanya.

The demonstration caused heavy traffic congestion along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, leaving many commuters stranded for hours.

The protesters said the increasing incidents of kidnappings, violent attacks and general insecurity had made life unbearable for residents. They urged the authorities to take decisive measures to protect lives and property.

Security operatives were deployed to the area to monitor the protest and manage traffic, while motorists were advised to seek alternative routes as the demonstration disrupted movement along the corridor.

As of the time of filing this report, there were no immediate reports of violence or casualties, although the blockade continued to affect traffic along the Karu-Nyanya axis. [Source: Daily Trust]