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#RevolutionIsNow: Athletes stranded as joint security force takes over National Stadium, Lagos (Video)

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#RevolutionIsNow: Athletes stranded as joint security force takes over National Stadium, Lagos (Video)

A joint security force comprising the army, DSS and police, has barred entry into the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, leaving athletes stranded.

Ripples Nigeria gathered that the heavy presence of security was ordered to prevent #RevolutionNow protesters from using the facility.

Policemen and soldiers were seen positioned in front and across locations around the stadium.

Our correspondent spoke with a DSS official who, under anonymity, confirmed that the security dispatch was to counter any likely action by the #RevolutionNow protesters.

He sympathised with Nigerians, stating that he understood their “yearnings”, but quickly added that as security operatives, they have to do their job.

He said, interestingly, that “If I were not here, I probably would have joined the #RevolutionNow protest”.

Read also: DSS confirms Sowore’s arrest, states reason

Many athletes, including special athletes on wheelchairs, were seen stranded outside the stadium, with some complaining bitterly. Some decided to engage in some exercises outside the stadium.

When the Ripples Nigeria team left the stadium area, no sign of #RevolutionNow protesters was seen. It remains to be seen whether the planned nationwide action would proceed as announced, after the arrest of the movement’s leader, Omoyele Sowore, by the DSS.

Many prominent Nigerians have called for his release, calling it an abuse of his right to protest. But the government, security and some Nigerians have countered the calls by saying revolution is different from a protest, justifying his arrest.

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