On Monday morning, there was gridlock on the Keffi-Abuja expressway as military officers setup a sudden roadblock for a stop-and-search operation.
The military checkpoint was strategically placed at Sani Abacha Barracks, near the AYA Roundabout, one of Abuja’s critical junctions. This location choice caught many by surprise, as security agencies did not issue any prior warning about the blockade. The lack of notification led to a massive traffic jam, stretching over 12 kilometers back to the Nyanya Bridge.
The unexpected roadblock significantly affected civil servants and traders commuting from areas such as Nyanya, Karu, Maraba, and Masaka into the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Many were trapped in the traffic for hours, with some forced to abandon their journey and turn back home.
The timing of this disruption is particularly notable as it occurs just three days before a planned nationwide protest on August 1. The protest is organized to address the escalating cost of living and worsening economic conditions in Nigeria. The sudden military presence and roadblock have raised tensions, with many speculating about the government’s motives and the potential impact on the upcoming demonstrations.
Residents and commuters are expressing frustration and concern over the lack of communication from security agencies. The gridlock not only caused significant delays but also disrupted daily activities and business operations in the affected areas.
