Police on Monday dispersed peaceful protesters with tear gas in the Maitama area of Abuja, as citizens rallied against economic hardship, repression, and alleged abuse of the Cybercrime Act.

The protest, organized by the Take-It-Back Movement in collaboration with civil society groups, coincided with the National Police Day celebration at Eagle Square. Security forces had earlier blocked access to the Three Arms Zone, where top police officials were gathered for the event.

Demonstrators, including activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, carried placards reading “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe,” accusing the Bola Tinubu administration of rising authoritarianism.

Take-It-Back National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, cited inflation, insecurity, and the emergency declaration in Rivers State as key grievances.

As of press time, there were no reports of injuries or arrests.