In Ughelli, Delta State, on Monday, a disturbing incident unfolded in Delta State, as Delta State Police Command clash with gathering of protesting Ugheli women. Gathered from Oteri-Ughelli, women protested alleged police harassment and extortion. The demonstration began calmly but escalated amid resistance. Hundreds of women faced pushback from officers at Ughelli’s Police Area Command. Initially peaceful, tensions quickly heightened. Women, alleging continuous harassment, encountered resistance. The escalation marred the initially peaceful protest in Ughelli.
Eyewitnesses described chaos as security forces used tear gas and gunfire to suppress the protest during the event. Amidst the turmoil, reports emerged of multiple injuries, with one woman sustaining a gunshot wound to her leg. The once peaceful demonstration quickly transformed into a scene of violence and distress, leaving many participants injured and shaken.
Protesting women’s leaders accused police of excessive force and unlawfully detaining and extorting money from their children. These allegations further fueled the growing outrage within the community. Concurrently, representatives of the community condemned the use of lethal force against what had started as a peaceful demonstration, emphasizing the disproportionate response by law enforcement.
Despite the Area Commander’s assurances that they would address the protesters’ grievances, violence erupted before authorities could reach any meaningful resolution. The harsh reality of the events overshadowed the promises of action, leaving the community grappling with the aftermath of the confrontation.
In the aftermath of the incident, concerns regarding ongoing police extortion and harassment continued to resonate within the community. Reports of arbitrary arrests and property damage further exacerbated tensions between law enforcement and residents. In response to mounting pressure, the Police Area Commander pledged to conduct thorough investigations and take appropriate disciplinary measures against any officers found culpable in the excessive use of force or misconduct.
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