Freelance journalist Ayoola Babalola was among those arrested by security operatives in Abuja on Saturday during protests at the MKO Abiola National Stadium.
The crackdown occurred as demonstrators gathered to demand an end to bad governance and economic hardship in Nigeria.
Babalola, who posted about his arrest on his WhatsApp status, few moments after security operatives, suspected to be from the Department of State Services, had shot at protesters and journalists at the stadium.
Africa Health Report, (AHR) correspondent covering the protest earlier reported how she, alongside other journalists, narrowly escaped gunshots fired by the operatives, with the car belonging to a Premium Times journalist, other media platforms riddled with bullets.
Babalola shared, “I’ve been arrested, comrades. I’m being held at Wuye Police Station. We are standing our ground and not releasing our devices,” noting that he was apprehended alongside six others, including Samuel Victor.
Despite the arrests and violence, protests have continued in Lagos, Oyo, Abuja, and other states, with demonstrators calling for the reversal of fuel subsidy removal and addressing the rising cost of goods and services. However, the ‘End Hunger’ protest has faced challenges, including reported lootings by hoodlums in Kano and other northern regions.
The Lagos State Government has urged protesters to disperse, stating that their voices have been heard.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party criticized President Bola Tinubu for not addressing the nation during the protests, calling on him to break his silence and reassure citizens about the pressing issues affecting them, according to a Statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba.
The situation remains tense as protesters face arrests and violence while demanding accountability and change from the government.
