The Nigeria Police on Monday fired tear gas at peaceful protesters in the Maitama area of Abuja, as demonstrators took to the streets demanding urgent government action on worsening economic conditions, rising repression, and the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act. The demonstration, which was part of a larger nationwide demonstration, was organized by the Take-It-Back Movement in collaboration with various civil society organizations. The timing of the protest coincided with the National Police Day celebrations taking place at the Eagle Square, where high-ranking police officials were gathered to honor the Nigeria Police Force’s service and commitment to the nation. This timing added a layer of significance to the protests, as citizens voiced their concerns on the very day dedicated to the police force.
Security arrangements for the official National Police Day event had placed a blockade around the Three Arms Zone, where the ceremony was being held, heightening the tension between protesters and the authorities. The demonstrators, undeterred by the heavy police presence, continued their march, making their grievances known with various placards carrying messages such as “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe,” which underscored the increasing frustration among the populace with the current administration's actions and policies. The protest served as a platform to spotlight the growing wave of authoritarianism under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, with many criticizing the government for its handling of both political dissent and the nation’s deteriorating socio-economic conditions.
Among the key figures present at the protest was human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, who has been an outspoken critic of the government and an advocate for political and civil rights in Nigeria. Sowore, alongside other prominent activists, stood firm in calling attention to the issues that have sparked the nationwide demonstration, which included soaring inflation, the high levels of insecurity plaguing the country, and the controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The protesters argued that these pressing issues needed immediate government intervention, with many calling for an end to the increasing levels of repression faced by ordinary Nigerians under the current regime.
The mobilization efforts for the protest were led by Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, who articulated the key concerns fueling the demonstration. Sanyaolu highlighted the growing disenchantment among Nigerians over the worsening economic conditions, pointing to the struggles of everyday citizens who have been facing economic hardships exacerbated by inflation, as well as the constant threat of violence and insecurity in various parts of the country. The protesters also expressed concern over the government’s use of the Cybercrime Act to silence dissenting voices, which they argued was an infringement on free speech and the democratic process.
As of the time of reporting, no confirmed injuries or arrests had been reported, though the situation remained tense as police attempted to disperse the crowd with tear gas. The protest has continued to draw attention to the broader political and social issues facing Nigeria, with many calling for greater accountability, transparency, and respect for fundamental human rights in the country. Despite the heavy-handed response from the authorities, the protesters remained resolute in their calls for change, with hopes that their actions would inspire broader movements advocating for democracy and human rights across the nation.