Nigerian Police Arrest Nearly 700 in Cost-of-Living Protests

The Nigerian police have reported the arrest of almost 700 individuals during country-wide protests against the high cost of living. Rubber bullets and tear gas were used against protesters in the capital city, Abuja. Amnesty International disclosed that among the 681 arrested, 50 were journalists.

Continued Demonstrations

The arrested individuals are facing accusations of armed robbery, arson, mischief, and property damage. Despite the crackdown, Damilare Adenola, a leader of the Take It Back group, confirmed that demonstrations will persist. The protesters are demanding a reduction in fuel prices and solutions to Nigeria’s economic crisis, with inflation peaking at 34%.

Blame on Police

Amnesty International accused security forces of killing 13 protesters, citing the use of live rounds. However, police denied the allegations, stating no deaths were linked to security forces. The police strategy includes confining protesters to city outskirts to prevent disruptions.

In Lagos, over 1,000 protesters voiced their dissent against President Bola Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of a popular petrol subsidy and currency devaluation.

lo/msh (AFP, AP, Reuters)

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