Protests: Security shutdown access to Presidential Villa, others in Abuja

Security operatives on Thursday tightened security around the Presidential Villa, sealing off all access leading to the seat of power.

It was gathered that the action was to prevent those protesting the abduction of students of both the Local Authority LA School and Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinle, in Orire Local government of Oyo state, from matching to the Presidential Villa, Abuja

BusinessDay checks show that a combined team of security operatives, including the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Security Service DSS, blocked access into the Presidential Villa.

One of the security officers who spoke on condition of anonymity, however described the exercise as a “normal security operation”.

“We are doing our routine job, but only those of you with the Presidential Villa tags can enter. This is part of regular security operations”

As a result of the exercise, only those working in the State House and workers in offices within the Presidency were granted access, after full identification.

Recall that human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore had vowed to lead protesters to “#OccupyAsoRock,” today, Thursday

Sowore had accused the federal government of failing to protect citizens and warned that public anger was growing over repeated attacks on schools and communities.

BusinessDay observed that Soldiers were also patrolling around the federal capital city, even as people are going about their activities.

Security operatives however, closed all access to the National Assembly and the Supreme Court, all located within the three Arms zone