On August 1, 2024, a peaceful #HungerProtest in Asaba, Delta State, turned violent when investigative journalist Prince Amour Udemude and correspondents Matthew Ochei and Monday Osayande from Punch and Guardian Newspapers were attacked.
The trouble started at Inter-Bua Roundabout around 11:20 am when anti-protesters, believed to be linked to the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and led by Mr. Greg, the Local Government Chairman’s Personal Assistant, began targeting protesters and journalists. The protest had been calm earlier in the day.
Amour Udemude was attacked after one of the thugs saw him filming the protest. The thugs took his phone, which has not been returned. The situation worsened as more thugs joined in, assaulting the journalists while police officers present did not intervene.
Mrs. Lucy Ezeliora from The Pointer had to get help from military personnel. The army arrived quickly to rescue the journalists and get them to safety.
Reports suggest that the Delta State Government might have paid local groups to disrupt the protest and stop people from joining in. Amour’s phone is still missing.
The attacks have raised concerns among PDP officials and government leaders, highlighting the increasing tension around the protest.
