Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo has expressed displeasure after videos surfaced online showing police officers using teargas to disperse peaceful protesters.
She urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to caution the police against the act, stating that it is the right of every Nigerian to protest.
Following the start of the #endbadgovernment protests on August 1, 2024, there have been reports of clashes between police and local miscreants in multiple states, including Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Borno.
In Abuja, protesters were teargassed by police at Eagles Square, despite having approval to protest at Moshood Abiola National Stadium. According to The Nation, police fired tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd, but the determined protesters continued marching.
Similarly, protesters at the Lekki tollgate in Lagos State were dispersed with tear gas. This use of force sparked outrage on social media.
Actress Iyabo Ojo condemned the actions on Instagram, urging President Tinubu and the police to allow peaceful protests.
She wrote, “Why are they throwing teargas? @nigeriapoliceforce #peacefulprotest is their right. @officialasiwajubat, please, sir, kindly speak to your men to caution their men. Allow a peaceful protest. Thank you. #peacefulprotest is their right,” appealing directly to President Tinubu.