Building Materials Plaza, Jabi, Abuja Shut After Police Fire Tear Gas at Protesters!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

The Eda Building Materials Plaza in Jabi, Abuja, was abruptly closed on Monday following chaos sparked by police tear-gassing #ReleaseNnamdiKanuNow protesters in the vicinity.

What We Know:

• The protest, which began near the Unity Fountain, spilled toward the commercial area, triggering security intervention.
• Tear gas fired by police affected not only demonstrators but also unsuspecting traders and customers within the busy plaza.
• Several shop owners shut their businesses amid fears of escalation, and the complex was evacuated by security officers.
• Eyewitnesses reported cases of mild injuries and panic attacks due to exposure to the tear gas.

Quote:

“We were attending to customers when the air became thick with gas. Everyone ran in confusion,” — Trader at Eda Plaza

Why It Matters:

• The incident underscores the wider ripple effects of forceful protest dispersals on economic activities and civilians.
• Jabi is a major commercial hub in Abuja; its temporary shutdown affects dozens of small businesses and daily revenue.
• It also raises questions about operational boundaries during civil unrest response.

What to Watch:

• Whether affected traders will seek compensation or make formal complaints.
• Police justification for expanding their operation into a commercial area.
• If plaza management takes legal or administrative action to prevent future disruptions.

Sources:

1.Eyewitness accounts – Jabi Plaza Traders

2. FCT Police Command Brief – Oct. 20, 2025

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