TIB Protest: South-South Coordinator Condemns Attack On Protesters In Rivers

Edith CHUKU

The Coordinator of ‘Take-It-Back Movement’ in the South South geopolitical zone, Mr. Jonathan Abang-Ugbal, has condemned the attack on protesters in Rivers State, on Monday.

In a statement titled “Condemnation of Brutal Suppression of the “Repeal the Cybercrimes Act” Abang-Ugbal described the attack as insensible and reckless.

According to him, “the Take It Back Movement strongly condemns the violent, and insensible
attack of peaceful protesters by combined forces of the military and police near
the CFC junction in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday.

“The excessive and reckless force used by the security agencies who are supposed to serve the public diligently led to patriotic Nigerians sustaining varying degrees of injuries.”

While expressing dismay over the incident, Abang-Ugbal revealed that the State Coordinator of the movement, Mr Amanyie King and the Niger Delta Congress President, Nubari Sataah, sustained serious injuries and were receiving medical care while dozens remain unaccounted for.

He explained that the protest was part of a broader campaign to draw attention to what he described as the deliberate misuse of the CyberCrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, as amended, to suppress dissent and harass citizens.

The coordinator stated that, “the use of live ammunition, teargas, and brutality against unarmed and peaceful protesters is a blatant display of the running (not ruling please) class’s despotic tendencies and the heinous act is a stark reminder of the lengths to which these privileged fellow countrymen and women who buffet on our commonwealth a la carte while masturbating in the corridors of power, will go to silence dissenting voices.

“Indeed, the Cybercrimes Act, has become a tool for oppressors to stifle free speech, silence
dissent and crush the common man.”

Abang-Ugbal urged Nigerians to recognize the gravity of the situation, stand in solidarity with the Movement, join the campaign to repeal the Cybercrimes Act, and demand for a just and equitable society.

“The right to peaceful protest is fundamental to any democracy, and it’s imperative that we protect this right. The time for silence and indifference is over, it is time for collective action. Indeed, a people united, can never be defeated.”

On behalf of the movement, he demanded for the immediate repeal of the cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, accountability for security agencies, especially the Nigerian Police Force Protection of Citizens’ Rights.

In another related development, the South South coordinator called on the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, O.E Omosanyin, to support the “Repeal the Cybercrimes Act” campaign to protect public interest.

He made this call while congratulating them on the 2025 National Police Day.

His word, “I bring warm greetings to diligent men and women of the Nigerian Police Force on the occasion of the National Police Day which ordinarily, all should celebrate to honor the collective efforts in upholding peace and safeguarding our communities if not for the activities of those within the ranks who have become clogs in the wheels of justice and willing tools of the oppressors and the ruining class in the country.

“As we recognize strides made so far, we must equally reflect on opportunities to build a just society for all citizens, irrespective of status, wealth, or privilege. Hence, the decision of the Take It Back Movement to launch the “Repeal the Cybercrimes Act” campaign – rooted in the principle of advocating for legal framework that prioritizes the rights of the many over the interests of the few and the growing call for justice and protection of citizen’s rights.

“The misuse of the Cybercrimes Act has disproportionately affected the marginalized, poor, and vulnerable in our society. It has become a tool for silencing dissenting voices, gagging discursive change agents, and undermining the freedoms we must all cherish as members of a just and equitable society.

“It is on that note, that the Nigeria Police Force has a historic opportunity to align itself with the people’s interests by endorsing the campaign. You are aware that Public Servants are, by oath, in a unique position to champion the values of fairness and accountability.

Therefore, by supporting the campaign to repeal the Cybercrimes Act, you can inspire confidence in the people’s belief that the police are allies in the struggle for progress and justice; foster collaborative relationship with the public which you are expected to serve diligently, thereby improving public trust in law enforcement, as well.

“Once again, congratulations to diligent officers of the force on National Police
Day. May this day serve as a reminder of the power of collective action and shared goals in building a society where every individual can thrive. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration and anticipated endorsement. Together, we must strive for a Nigeria that upholds the dignity and rights of all
its citizens. Indeed, a people united, can never be defeated.”