Nigeria: Protest in Abuja August 8 /update 1

Event

Civil society groups led by the “Concerned Nigerians” civil society group held another protest on Tuesday, August 8, criticizing President Muhammadu Buhari’s extended absence due to ill health. The protest reportedly became violent with police officers firing tear gas to disperse the crowd; one person was reportedly injured. Protesters warned that further demonstrations will take place every day starting at 09:00 (local time) until their demands – that the president either return or resign – are met.

Context

A protest march was previously held in Abuja on August 7 with people gathering at the Unity Fountain and ending with a sit-in at the  Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The protesters are demanding that Buhari either resign or end his extended leave of absence and return from London, where he has been retrieving medical treatment since May 7.

Advice

Individuals present in Abuja are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and to obey any instructions issued by local authorities.