Security forces intensified their presence in Benin City on Friday, particularly around government infrastructure, as the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest entered its second day. The Nigerian Army, police, and Civil Defence were strategically deployed throughout the city centre and the Kings Square protest venue.
Armoured personnel carriers and patrol vehicles from the Nigerian Army and police were seen patrolling major streets, including Sakponba Road. Barricades erected by youths on Sapele Road and Ramat Park were removed by soldiers and police, respectively.
However, some youths still managed to barricade Ekenwa Road, while commuters were prevented from entering the city at Auchi bypass. Commercial activities gradually resumed, with some filling stations and markets reopening for business.
Despite heavy rainfall, protesters remained defiant, with one of the leaders, Kola Edokpayi, confirming the protest's success. He noted that people from various parts of the state joined the protest, ensuring it remained peaceful.