Activist Arrested During Protest Against Economic Hardship in Delta State
Prominent activist Comrade Israel Joe has been arrested by soldiers in Delta State during a planned protest against economic hardship. The demonstration aimed to address rising inflation and economic challenges allegedly attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s policies.
The protest, scheduled to commence at DSC Roundabout in Warri, was met with a heavy security presence. Despite assurances from Israel Joe that the protest would be peaceful, security teams arrived early at the venue, indicating a preemptive effort to thwart the demonstration.
Israel Joe, who had previously been summoned by the police, was reportedly taken into custody by soldiers from the Nigerian Army 3 Battalion in Effurun. He was later handed over to the police at Ekpan Station, where sources suggest charges of terrorism are being considered against him.
Authorities had expressed concerns during earlier meetings with Israel Joe about the potential for the protest to escalate and cause insecurity in the state. Despite his assurances of peaceful intent, the security apparatus appeared resolute in preventing the protest from taking place.
A source informed SaharaReporters, “The soldiers took him to Ekpan and handed him over to police there. Right now, Israel is in their custody. The police are planning to charge him for terrorism for instigating a protest.”
The arrest of Israel Joe has sparked outrage among activists and citizens, with many condemning it as an attempt to stifle dissent and suppress legitimate expressions of grievances against government policies. Calls for his immediate release have been circulating on social media platforms, highlighting concerns about the shrinking space for freedom of speech and assembly in Nigeria.
Politics Nigeria
