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A potential confrontation between demonstrators and security forces is expected today as the Take It Back Movement, the group organizing the rally, intends to stage protests at the National Assembly in Abuja and 19 other locations nationwide during the June 12 celebrations.
President Bola Tinubu is set to address a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives today as part of Democracy Day events, which could create a volatile atmosphere.
Tinubu had previously cancelled a nationwide broadcast planned for Nigeria's 26th Democracy Day anniversary.
The Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, attributed the cancellation to the President's scheduled participation in the Assembly. Instead, the President will deliver his Democracy Day speech from the Assembly chambers.
In anticipation of the nationwide protests, police and security forces have increased their presence throughout the country.
The protest organizers state that their goal is to bring attention to economic hardships faced by the populace. Initially planned for Eagle Square, the location was changed for the demonstration, but Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, emphasized that the change does not affect the protest's objectives.
Sanyaolu highlighted rising poverty, widespread insecurity, and a lack of democratic accountability as significant concerns.
“Nigerians from all walks of life have been mobilized, and we will take to the streets to end bad governance. We have nothing to lose; the worst has already happened,” he said, urging citizens to participate in the protest as a constitutional right.
Despite reports of attacks on some activists, Sanyaolu affirmed that the protests will proceed as planned. He expressed concerns over the treatment of protesters by law enforcement, urging them to respect citizens' rights. Michael Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the protest in Abuja, noted that many young Nigerians are determined to participate due to frustration with the government's neglect.
Adenola warned that security forces should respect the rights of protesters and avoid using force, while police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi directed inquiries about management plans for the protest to the FCT Police Command.
Sanyaolu reiterated that protests are slated for at least 20 locations across the country, providing detailed information about each area's start time.
He stressed that it is the responsibility of law enforcement to ensure the safety of protesters.
In Lagos, the #EndBadGovernanceMovement plans a demonstration at Ikeja Underbridge, with the Ikeja branch of the Nigerian Bar Association writing to the Lagos State Police Command for protection for the protesters, emphasizing their constitutional right to assemble peacefully.
State coordinators from various areas also highlighted the need for peaceful protests, stating that they would hold authorities accountable if any violence or suppression occurs. While police in some regions claim they were not informed of protests, they have increased security to maintain order during Democracy Day celebrations, confirming readiness to prevent disruption.
Activists across various states have discussed their plans to protest or hold alternative events, with some expressing concerns about potential unrest tied to political motives.
