The usually bustling suburb of Ikorodu in Lagos was notably quiet as the anticipated nationwide protest kicked off on Thursday, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). A reporter from NAN who surveyed the area noted a peaceful atmosphere, limited vehicular activity, closed stalls, and a heavy security presence.
At Sabo Market, one of the popular markets in the area, trading activities were minimal. Most of the market gates were closed, except for the main gate along Sabo-Itumoja Junction. Meanwhile, Ladega Market, located off Ayangburen Road, appeared deserted with closed stalls, although a few traders were observed lingering around.
One visitor to the market, Mrs Shukura Hassan, expressed her disappointment at finding the shops locked, as she had hoped to purchase groceries. Initially, she assumed the closed stalls were due to the usual Thursday environmental sanitation exercise.
The interstate park at Ikorodu Garage, which serves as a transportation hub for buses traveling to various locations such as Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Abeokuta, and Ibadan, showed some bus activities. However, at the Peace Mass Transit Park, no travelers were seen, buses were parked, and people were gathered outside the gate. A man named Kenneth, who claimed to work there, mentioned that they were not operational that day and advised returning another time.
The usually busy BRT Terminal at Ikorodu Garage was surprisingly less crowded. Only a few BRT buses were in sight, with only a handful of passengers boarding. Security officials, including the Police, Nigeria Civil Defence, and LNSC, could be seen patrolling the area, ensuring peace and order.
Local banks along Lagos Road and Ayangburen Road remained closed, although some customers were observed using the ATM for their transactions. (NAN)