FCT paralysed as joint security operation causes gridlock, leaving commuters stranded

Commuters in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including workers and traders, experienced significant difficulties accessing their workplaces on Monday due to a joint operation by Nigerian security forces that blocked strategic locations in the territory.

Before connecting vehicles to continue their journey, passengers had to disembark and trek long distances.

There was an eerie absence of the usual bustling on the Finance Bridge, making it difficult for people to find vehicles from the Finance Bridge to Barnex.

Persecondnews recalls that the country’s pressing challenges prompted the launch of a nationwide protest, scheduled to run from August 1 to August 10.

In an interview, passengers furiously vented their frustration as they complained about the current economic hardships.

With few vehicles on the roads, commercial vehicle drivers took advantage of the situation to hike fares, charging exorbitantly.

For example, from Mararaba to Wuse Market, the drivers increased the fare from N500 to N1000 or N1200.

Despite the disruptions, markets in the area remain fully operational, with Karu, Wuse, Garki, and Utako markets open for business.

Although some offices and banks are currently closed, there are indications that they might open later today.

President Bola Tinubu had on Sunday appealed for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing protests, which began on Thursday, August 1.

In a televised address to the nation, the president restated his administration’s commitment to engaging with protesters and addressing their concerns.

He acknowledged that the voices of the protesters had been heard clearly and assured them that their grievances would be addressed.

President Tinubu also expressed his condolences to the families of those who died in clashes with security forces, as well as to those whose properties suffered damage or looting during the protests.