What began as a peaceful demonstration by the Take-It-Back Movement, Civil Society Organisations, and Niger Delta Congress turned chaotic in Port Harcourt after police operatives from the Rivers State Command fired tear gas at protesters. The demonstrators, who had gathered at Isaac Boro Park to voice grievances over governance, economic hardship, and alleged repression, were met with strong resistance.
Despite being told to relocate, the protesters marched on, singing solidarity songs. Tensions escalated when they reached CFC junction and refused police orders to disperse. The response was swift and harsh — tear gas canisters rained down, scattering the crowd.
Critics have slammed the use of force, describing it as yet another attempt by the state to silence dissent and suppress democratic rights. The incident adds fuel to growing concerns about rising authoritarianism under the current administration.
