Public affairs analyst Dickson Iroegbu has criticized the Nigeria Police Force over its handling of protesters during the #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration held in Abuja on Monday. Speaking on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme monitored by DAILY POST, Iroegbu said Nigeria would be safer if the police confronted insecurity with the same intensity they use against peaceful demonstrators.

Iroegbu’s comments followed reports that security operatives allegedly fired tear gas and live bullets at protesters demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu. The police have, however, denied the use of live ammunition during the protest.

He commended activist Omoyele Sowore, who convened the protest, for his courage and described the demonstration as peaceful before the police intervention. “If only our police could handle bandits and terrorists the way they handle protesters, Nigeria would not have any insecurity problems,” Iroegbu said.

The analyst condemned the excessive use of force against unarmed citizens, noting that such actions deepen mistrust between the police and the public. “They used not just tear gas but live bullets on peaceful protesters. It’s unfortunate, and it cannot continue this way,” he added.

The #FreeNnamdiKanu protest has continued to draw mixed reactions across the country. While some commend Sowore for standing up for justice and human rights, others have called for calm and dialogue between the government and IPOB supporters to avoid further unrest.