#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria: Business premises closed as protest yet to begin in Rivers

In Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, banks, gas stations, and large businesses shut down in anticipation of a nationwide protest over economic difficulties.

By 9 am on Thursday, there were no indications of any protests occurring within the city; numerous residents, including civil servants, chose to stay home to monitor developments.

Many business owners are fearful of potential violence or damage to their establishments from enraged protesters, reminiscent of the #ENDSARS demonstrations.

The streets saw minimal vehicle traffic—primarily commercial vehicles—while many individuals were observed walking to their destinations.

The area spanning from Elekahia to Garrison, extending along the bustling Aba Road and Azikiwe Road past Govey House in Port Harcourt, experienced minimal traffic.

According to our correspondent, a similar scenario was observed on Aggrey Road leading to the Borikiri section of old Port Harcourt Township, where several key businesses, including fuel stations, were shut down.

In contrast, operations were ongoing at the Central Bank of Nigeria situated behind Azikiwe Road in Port Harcourt; however, this was under strict security measures with police and military personnel overseeing the premises.