Democracy Day celebrations in Nigeria are overshadowed by widespread protests as the Take It Back Movement and allied groups mobilise in Abuja and 19 other cities to demand an end to economic hardship and insecurity.
President Bola Tinubu, who cancelled his scheduled nationwide address, will instead speak at a joint session of the National Assembly. Segun Imohiosen, spokesperson for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, confirmed the change, citing Tinubu’s legislative engagement.
Security forces have increased their presence. Protest leader Juwon Sanyaolu says, “The unprecedented hardship and insecurity we have experienced under his government are alarming. Nigerians will be turning out nationwide to protest against this.”
Despite attacks on organisers in several states, Sanyaolu insists the protests will proceed. He urges security agencies to respect the right to protest.
Michael Adenola, FCT protest coordinator, expects thousands of youths to join, expressing frustration over killings, unemployment, and poor education funding. He calls on security agencies to avoid violence.
FCT Commissioner of Police Adewale Ajao assures citizens of protection, urging order and respect for rights.
Protests are planned at Eagle Square (Abuja), four Lagos locations, and key sites in Akure, Benin City, Niger, Yobe, Oyo, Bauchi, and Osun. Sanyaolu emphasises that ensuring safety is the police’s duty.
The Nigerian Bar Association’s Ikeja branch has called for police protection, citing legal requirements.
In Osun and Bauchi, local organisers urge police to protect protesters and reject dialogue seen as a stalling tactic.
Security agencies in Borno, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Ogun, Yobe, Osun, Oyo, and Jigawa have deployed personnel, with Borno alone mobilising 1,500 officers. Ogun, Oyo, and Ondo states assure residents of peaceful celebrations.
Some states, like Kano and Kwara, see civil society groups opting for public lectures and workshops instead of protests, citing security concerns.
Police in Delta, Edo, and Niger acknowledge the protests and pledge to maintain peace, with the NSCDC also on alert.
In Rivers, ex-Ijaw Youths Council leader Tamuno Kpokpo warns against politically motivated protests, urging support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s peaceful approach.
As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, the nation confronts a pivotal moment, balancing demands for accountability with the need for public order.