Protest: Live Bullets Were Fired At Us, Nnamdi Kanu’s Brother Beaten, Arrested — Sowore

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused security operatives of launching an unprovoked attack on peaceful protesters during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu rally in Abuja.

Sowore, who spoke on the Monday edition of The Morning Brief on Channels Television, alleged that security forces opened fire shortly after the protest began at the front of the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

He also confirmed that some individuals were arrested during the incident, including Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother and his lawyer, who were allegedly beaten before being taken to the Nigeria Police Force FCT Command.

“Eventually, they did arrest some people. I heard Nnamdi Kanu’s younger brother was arrested and beaten, and his lawyer was also arrested and beaten.

“They’ve all been taken to the FCT Command,” he said.

 “There were about 10 trucks that arrived as soon as we started the protest. There was no provocation on our part, like we had promised; it was an orderly and peaceful protest.

“Suddenly, from nowhere, they started shooting at us, tear gas, and some live bullets were fired. Luckily, I don’t think anybody was hit with live bullets, but they were just shooting all around us,” he said.

The human rights activist also alleged that a combined team of the police, army, and civil defence personnel carried out the operation.

He, however, confirmed that no member of his protest team was hit by the live rounds fired.

Sowore also earlier criticised the prolonged detention of Kanu, describing the process as “a sham designed to obstruct justice” and calling on the Federal Government to present its evidence before the court.

Security operatives on Monday fired tear gas and live rounds to disperse protesters demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu in Abuja.

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The protest, led by Sowore, took place despite a court order and police warning.

Protesters chanted, “Free Nnamdi Kanu now,” “It’s our constitutional right to protest,” and “Don’t tear gas us,” before security forces fired shots and tear gas, forcing them to flee.

Police operatives had arrived at the protest area early, positioning themselves along major routes to the Presidential Villa.

There was a heavy security presence at Eagle Square, Unity Fountain, and the Three Arms Zone.