Commercial banks and shops in Osogbo, Osun State, were on Thursday shut due to ongoing nationwide protests.

Commercial banks, shopping malls and major stores were under lock and key.

The ever-bubbling Osun Mall was also shut, while there was heavy presence of security personnel, comprising the army, police and NSCDC within the mall premises.

One of the security agents who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that the presence of security officers at the mall was to prevent looting, as it happened during the 2020 #EndSARS protest.

Also, the popular Akindeko market, MDS shopping complex and Orisunmbare market were also not opened for business.

The state secretariat in Abere was also deserted, with few workers within the premises.

Security officers were also seen at some strategic locations within the state capital, while others were patrolling the major roads.

There were vehicular movements, while the environment was relatively peaceful.

As of the time this report was filed, protesters were already at the popular Freedom Park, preparatory to carrying out their protest.

The state government had, on Tuesday, directed all the primary and secondary schools across the state to proceed on vacation due to the nationwide protest.

(NAN)