As Nigeria prepares to celebrate Democracy Day, tensions are escalating with planned protests organized by the Take It Back Movement. Demonstrations are set to occur at the National Assembly in Abuja and 19 other locations across the country today, coinciding with President Bola Tinubu’s address to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Originally, President Tinubu was scheduled to deliver a nationwide broadcast for Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary, but this has been canceled in favor of a direct address from the National Assembly chambers. Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information and Public Relations, stated that this change was due to the President’s attendance at the National Assembly.
In response to the planned protests, security agencies have heightened their presence across the country. The organizers aim to voice their concerns about the economic hardships faced by citizens, citing what they term “two years of misrule, hardship, and insecurity” under Tinubu’s administration.
Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, emphasized that while the location of the protest has changed, the goals remain the same. He highlighted rising poverty, rampant insecurity, and a lack of democratic accountability as key issues driving the protests.
Sanyaolu noted, “All Nigerians from different walks of life are mobilized to demand an end to bad governance. We have nothing to lose and everything to gain by exercising our constitutional right to protest.”
Despite reports of attacks on protest coordinators in various states, Sanyaolu affirmed that the demonstrations would proceed as planned. He urged security agencies to respect citizens’ rights to protest peacefully.
Michael Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the protest in Abuja, stated that many young Nigerians are frustrated with the current economic situation and are committed to participating in the protests. He called on security agencies to ensure the safety of protesters and avoid unnecessary force.
In various states, preparations are underway for the protests. Sanyaolu outlined specific meeting points and times for cities including Abuja, Lagos, Akure, and Benin City, among others.
Additionally, the Nigerian Bar Association’s Ikeja branch has written to the Lagos State Police Command, requesting protection for protesters, citing legal obligations under the Police Act to ensure safety during peaceful assemblies.
While some pro-democracy groups have opted for alternative activities, such as public lectures and workshops instead of protests, others remain determined to voice their concerns on the streets.
As the day of protests approaches, security agencies in various states are mobilizing personnel to maintain order and ensure public safety during the Democracy Day celebrations.
