This morning, March 5, police officers used tear gas to break up a protest by supporters of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. The supporters, who had gathered around 8 a.m., were demonstrating in her favor when security officers stepped in to disperse them.

The protest happened just before the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions was scheduled to meet. The committee is set to look into accusations made by Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Last Friday, during a live TV interview, Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Akpabio tried to defame her in the Senate after she allegedly refused his sexual advances. Her case has now been referred to the Senate committee for further review.

The protest was meant to show support for the senator, but security forces acted quickly to prevent any possible unrest.