Abakaliki, Nigeria – The planned nationwide protest against hunger and bad governance on Thursday recorded zero turnout in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital.
Business and commercial activities went on smoothly but were skeletal across the state capital, while the environment was peaceful.
However, commercial banks and some filling stations were closed but at the popular International Market, Abakaliki, petty trading and some township commercial vehicles witnessed skeletal operations.
There was heavy presence of armed security operatives, patrolling the streets to prevent a breakdown of law and order while others were stationed at different locations of the state.
A Resident of Abakaliki, Mr Peter Azuka, elated by the peaceful atmosphere witnessed in the state capital and its environs, suggested that constructive criticism and advise were needed in the process to make the needed change in the society.
Azuka advised governments on the need to welcome and listen to criticisms, the lack of which sparked the protest in the first place
“Criticisms will enable government work on plights, demands and other needs of the citizens,” Azuka said.
Mr Collins Anike, also resident in Abakaliki, said in spite of the freedom of association, which the law permits, citizens should abide by the law and carry out peaceful protests.
Anike advised the youths to shun destruction of public facilities.
“As you can see, Ebonyi is witnessing a peaceful atmosphere and zero protest,” Anike said.
