Tension briefly rose under the Ikeja Bridge in Lagos on Friday as two separate groups held simultaneous rallies, leading to a struggle over control of the protest venue.
One of the gatherings was organised by human rights activists and civil society groups to draw attention to the worsening insecurity in the country. Among those present were Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, activist Hassan Taiwo Soweto and several other campaigners.
At the same time, a pro-government group known as Team Nigeria staged a counter-rally in support of President Bola Tinubu, creating a charged atmosphere that nearly degenerated into physical confrontation before security operatives stepped in.
Police officers led by Akinwumi Oke were deployed to maintain order and prevent clashes between the two groups.
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Both sides arrived with large sound systems and blasted music in a bid to overpower each other, further heightening tensions at the venue.
The atmosphere became more animated when Femi Falana arrived alongside his wife, Funmi Falana, and their son, popular musician and activist Folarin Falana, better known as Falz. Their presence boosted the morale of the anti-government protesters, while members of Team Nigeria continued their activities with loud music.
Addressing the demonstrators, Falana said the protest was aimed at drawing attention to the rising wave of insecurity and the abduction of children in states including Oyo, Zamfara and Kebbi.
Despite the tension and competing rallies, security personnel maintained order and prevented the situation from escalating.
