Ughelli North Local Government Area in Delta State experienced heightened tensions on the second day of peaceful protests against poor governance.
According to Vanguard, the situation escalated when police stationed at the Otovwodo area of the East-West road allegedly shot and injured an unidentified protester.
The incident occurred as protesters, who were carrying placards and marching towards the Otovwodo junction, faced resistance from the police. Eyewitnesses reported that the police started firing tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to chaos as the protesters responded by throwing sachet water at the officers.
A protester recounted, “We were only holding placards when the police blocked our path and began firing tear gas. In response, we threw sachet water at them. As the police were retreating, they opened fire, and one person was shot in the chest.”
Human Rights Activist Comrade Silver, who was present at the scene, provided additional details. “This morning, the protest was very peaceful. We were urging the protesters to stay calm and not give hoodlums a chance to loot. I witnessed a police van pursuing a Mercedes 4matic car, blocking it and throwing tear gas inside. I intervened and pleaded with the police, resulting in the release of a detained boy.”
Silver continued, “As the protesters were leaving, another police vehicle arrived and demanded the boy’s arrest. This led to market women throwing water and stones at the police, who then responded with tear gas and live ammunition. I learned that a person was shot and the Army took him to the hospital. I don’t know which hospital, but there were reports of gunfire.”
The injured protester was reportedly taken to a hospital by security agents, but his condition remains unknown. The incident has intensified tensions in Ughelli North, with increasing calls for justice and accountability.