Police arrest OK Movement coordinator during Uyo Independence Day march

Summary

Police in Akwa Ibom State arrested Elijah Noah, the OK Movement’s state coordinator, after officers stopped an Independence Day march in Uyo.

Highlights

• Police said the march was halted after a last-minute directive cancelling political rallies, meetings and processions scheduled for 1 October.
• The command said it arrested eight people for allegedly breaching public peace and ignoring security directives.
• Witnesses told Premium Times that tear gas was fired as officers dispersed supporters at Edet Akpan Avenue.
• Police denied that tear gas or gunfire was used and said no firearm was discharged during the operation.
• Commissioner of Police Baba Azare said the action was driven by security concerns and the risk of clashes between political groups.