Operatives from the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) reportedly stormed the IHS Towers office in Wuse 2, Abuja, on Thursday, creating a tense and dangerous standoff.

Incident During World Human Rights Day Event

The disruption occurred during a World Human Rights Day presentation being delivered by Amnesty International staff, who were commemorating the occasion. Eyewitnesses reported that the ICPC operatives seized over 40 mobile phones, laptops, and smartwatches from the staff members present at the office.

Staff Held Hostage

According to sources at the scene, the ICPC officers prohibited anyone from entering or leaving the building, effectively holding Amnesty International staff members “hostage.” The operatives reportedly threatened to open fire on anyone who attempted to exit or enter the building, further escalating the tension.

At the time of reporting, two Amnesty International staff members were still reportedly trapped inside the building.

“The ICPC personnel confiscated over 40 mobile phones, laptops, and smartwatches,” one eyewitness shared. “The Amnesty International staff members giving the Human Rights Day presentation are still being held hostage inside the office, as the ICPC operatives threaten to shoot anyone who tries to leave or enter.”

Disruption of Human Rights Day Event

The Amnesty International staff, who had been making a presentation about human rights, were forced to halt their work as the ICPC operatives disrupted the event. Eyewitnesses described the situation as chaotic, with tensions rising as staff members were confined to the building under threat of violence.

“They disrupted the Human Rights Day presentation and threatened to shoot anyone who tried to leave the conference room or get in,” an agitated source told reporters.

Background on IHS Towers

IHS Towers, which has been operating in Nigeria since 2001, is a major player in the telecommunications tower management industry. The company provides services to mobile network operators and has expanded its services to meet the growing demand for mobile connectivity in Nigeria. IHS Towers is headquartered in Lagos, with regional offices in cities including Abuja, Ibadan, Enugu, Asaba, Kano, and Port Harcourt.