Tensions flared in Rivers State on April 7, 2025, as police operatives fired tear gas to disperse peaceful protesters during the Port Harcourt protest April 7 2025, organized by the Take It Back Movement. The demonstration, which held near Isaac Boro Park, was aimed at rejecting what protesters described as “bad governance, the abuse of the Cybercrime Act, and the illegal push for a state of emergency in Rivers.”
The protest began peacefully with dozens of participants holding placards and chanting solidarity slogans. However, confrontation erupted when police officers ordered the group to vacate the protest site. Protesters, citing their constitutional right to peaceful assembly, refused to leave.
Eyewitnesses reported that the police quickly responded with force, deploying tear gas canisters to break up the gathering. Protesters were seen scrambling for safety as the area became engulfed in smoke.
Protesters Accuse FG and Police of Targeting Citizens
According to organizers, the protest was also aimed at drawing attention to the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act, which they claim is being weaponized by the Nigerian Police to harass journalists, activists, and social media influencers.
“They are using the Cybercrime Act as a tool of repression. This is not about order, it’s about silencing truth-tellers,” said one demonstrator before the police crackdown.
Movement Vows to Regroup: “We Will Not Be Silenced”
Amaye King Amaye, leader of the Take It Back Movement in Rivers State, condemned the police response and vowed that the group will continue its fight.
“We will regroup. Rivers people have a voice, and we will be heard. We are protesting anti-people policies and the Federal Government’s interference in our state. We demand the return of our democratically elected governor,” Amaye declared.
He further insisted that the movement will not be intimidated and called on other Nigerians to join in peaceful resistance.