Port Harcourt, Rivers State, witnessed a dramatic turn of events on April 7, 2025, as police officers fired teargas to disperse protesters gathered at Isaac Boro Park. The demonstration, organized by the Take It Back Movement, aimed to address grievances over the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, worsening economic conditions, and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara following the declaration of emergency rule in the state.
The protesters, who arrived at the venue as early as 9:00 a.m., were met with heavy police presence. Despite warnings from the police to disperse, the demonstrators insisted on their right to assemble. One protester boldly declared, “Nobody can tell us where not to gather. We are Rivers people.”
The protest, described by organizers as peaceful, quickly escalated when police officers launched teargas canisters to disperse the crowd. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as protesters scattered for safety, with some being chased down and manhandled by the police. Journalists covering the event were also reportedly beaten.
The demonstrators voiced their dissatisfaction with the current state of governance in Rivers State. One protester remarked, “As it is, we have no government. This government in Rivers State is alien to our people; it is unconstitutional. We are here to demand that our governor comes back to office and lead us appropriately. We have a social contract with the governor, not a sole administrator. This is democracy.”
The protest was part of a nationwide movement, with similar demonstrations taking place in Lagos, Oyo, and other states. The organizers had informed the police of their intentions in a letter dated April 3, 2025, but their plans were met with resistance.
The Nigeria Police Force had earlier urged the organizers to suspend the protests, citing security concerns and broader national challenges. Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi described the timing of the protests as “ill-timed and mischievous,” coinciding with the National Police Day celebration.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many questioning the use of force against peaceful protesters, some condemning the police’s actions and others calling for accountability.