The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory has limited participants in the August 1 hunger protest against the federal government to the MKO Abiola stadium, also known as the National Stadium.
Justice Sylvanus Oriji issued this order on Wednesday in Abuja, following an ex-parte application by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Chief Ogwu James Onoja argued the application, requesting an interim injunction to prevent the five leaders of the protesting groups from gathering or parading along any roadways, streets, offices, and public premises within the FCT from August 1 to 10. The minister also sought an order mandating security agencies to prevent such gatherings.
The minister argued that while the federal government is not against the protest, intelligence reports indicated that some protest leaders might use the event to cause chaos, damage public facilities, and disrupt public order.
Security agencies reportedly informed the minister that they are not adequately equipped to handle any potential crisis at short notice and recommended preventive measures.
An exhibit from the “Take it Back Movement, FCT,” signed by Damilare Adenola, threatened to invade the Presidential Villa and remove barriers at Aso Rock during the protest. They also demanded that the FCT provide light and toilets for the protest duration.
Justice Oriji acknowledged the protesters’ rights but restricted them to the stadium due to the minister’s concerns. He stated that this measure ensures the protesters’ rights while protecting the rights of other citizens and preventing damage to public property.
The court ordered the service of processes and the confinement order to be published in newspapers.
Defendants in the suit include Omoyele Sowore, Damilare Adenola, Adama Ukpabi, Tosin Harsogba, persons unknown, the Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police, the Director General of the State Security Service, the Director General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, and the Chief of Naval Staff.
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