ABUJA NIGERIA—Commuters and residents in Nigerias Federal Capital Territory FCT Abuja faced severe gridlock and frustration on Monday morning following the decision by security forces to erect barricades at strategic entry and exit points to the city centre The heightened security presence was a pre-emptive measure against a planned protest demanding the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB Nnamdi Kanu under the banner of the FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement .

The security operation reportedly aimed at forestalling the protesters planned march on the State House—the official residence of President Bola Tinubu—resulted in a breakdown of movement leaving thousands of workers students and other residents stranded for hours .

Security Barricades Trigger Commuter Anger

The checkpoints notably along major corridors such as the Nyanya-Mararaba road and routes feeding in from satellite towns like Bwari Ushafa Dutse and parts of Kubwa caused kilometres-long traffic jams The unexpected disruption led to widespread anger among the populace many of whom were simply attempting to get to their workplaces or businesses .

One stranded motorist Usman Jibrin expressed his frustration in the Sokale area lamenting the impact of the security actions on ordinary citizens If people want to go to the Villa why should it affect those of us on the outskirts Are they security forces scared that people would be imported this morning for the protest This is punishment and God is watching us all Jibrin was quoted as saying capturing the mood of many affected individuals .

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The protest organised by activists including Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore and Barr Aloy Ejimakor was forcefully dispersed by a joint detachment of defence and security operatives in the Maitama area of Abuja The protesters who had gathered near the Nigeria Communications Commission NCC headquarters chanting Free Nnamdi Kanu Now were dispersed amid sounds of gunshots forcing them to scatter for safety The incident highlights the continued tension surrounding the demand for Nnamdi Kanus release and the governments decisive stance on security operations to maintain order in the capital .

President Tinubu Hails Ex-PUNCH MD Ademola Osinubi at 70

In a separate development that captured the attention of the media and political landscape President Bola Tinubu extended a heartfelt tribute to the former Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of PUNCH Nigeria Limited Sir Ademola Osinubi on the occasion of his 70th birthday .

The President in a personally signed tribute described Osinubi as a model of integrity resilience and excellence in Nigerian journalism celebrating the veteran journalists platinum jubilee .

A Legacy of Integrity and Dedication

President Tinubu lauded Osinubis illustrious career which began with The PUNCH in 1976 and saw him rise through the ranks from the bottom to the highest managerial position The President emphasised that Osinubis journey exemplified hard work discipline and an unwavering dedication to democratic ideals .

Joining The PUNCH in 1976 you rose through the ranks from the bottom to the peak by hard work resilience discipline and dedication to duty the President stated You are proof that success is attainable with purpose and vision .

Tinubu specifically highlighted Osinubis formidable 27-year tenure at the helm of PUNCH Nigeria Limited During this period Osinubi navigated the newspaper through challenging waters including periods of military repression and closures while also steering it through significant periods of innovation The President noted that Osinubis management has left an indelible mark on Nigerias dynamic media landscape .

Furthermore President Tinubu commended Osinubis fidelity to the ethics of the journalism profession and his efforts in the struggle for our democracy acknowledging his role as a mentor who guided generations of journalists toward principled reporting The President concluded by affirming his admiration for the veterans lifelong commitment to truth and national progress praying for many more years of good health for the celebrant .

Osinubi who retired from PUNCH Nigeria Limited in April 2022 is widely recognised as a significant figure in the countrys newspaper industry having successfully managed one of Nigerias most respected media houses .

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