Panic as angry protesters, hoodlums block major road leading to Abuja

Tension soared on Thursday at the bustling Mararaba junction in Karu Local Government Area as enraged protesters and hoodlums obstructed the Nasarawa-Abuja road, setting tires ablaze and causing widespread panic.

The demonstrators, brandishing placards and tree branches, prevented motorists from accessing the crucial roadway.

In response, heavily armed police officers were deployed to manage the situation, as residents fled in all directions seeking safety.

The incident forced the closure of all businesses, plazas, motor parks, and the prominent Mararaba market along the affected road.

The protesters are demanding several key reforms, including the reversal of the recent fuel price hike, restoration of affordable electricity tariffs, and the reduction of import duties to previous levels.

Additionally, they seek the rollback of increased fees in tertiary institutions and call for full transparency and accountability in governance.

This includes the public disclosure and reduction of public officials’ salaries and allowances, as well as the establishment of an emergency fund to support Small and Medium Enterprises.