Tensions are expected to rise today, June 12, as the Take It Back Movement and allied civil society groups stage coordinated protests in Abuja and at least 19 other locations across Nigeria. The demonstrations, which coincide with Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations, aim to highlight widespread dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing economic hardship, insecurity, and perceived governance failures over the past two years.
The protests are set to unfold as President Tinubu delivers his Democracy Day address at a joint session of the National Assembly, replacing a previously scheduled nationwide broadcast. According to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the change is due to the president’s in-person participation in legislative events marking the occasion.
Despite the high-profile national ceremonies, security forces have ramped up operations across the country, with thousands of personnel deployed in cities including Abuja, Lagos, Benin, Ibadan, Damaturu, and Port Harcourt. Security agencies, including the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have vowed to maintain law and order, though some have warned against any acts of civil unrest.
Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, confirmed that protests will continue despite what he described as harassment and intimidation of organisers in several states. “We are not deterred,” he told The PUNCH. “The hardship under this administration is unprecedented. Nigerians are coming out to peacefully demand better governance.”
The protests were initially planned for Abuja’s Eagle Square but were moved to the National Assembly, where organisers argue their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly remain valid. Protests are also scheduled at locations such as Maryland and Toll Gate in Lagos, Cathedral Junction in Akure, and Ring Road in Benin.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja branch has formally requested police protection for protesters, emphasizing the legal right to peaceful assembly and citing relevant sections of the Police Act. Meanwhile, civil society groups in some states—including Kano and Kwara—have opted for alternative activities such as public lectures and training workshops due to concerns over security or political interference.
In Rivers State, former Ijaw Youth Council leader Tamuno Kpokpo warned youths not to be used for politically motivated protests, particularly those allegedly linked to suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Across several states, police and NSCDC officials assured the public of their readiness to ensure peaceful Democracy Day celebrations while cautioning against unlawful activities. In some locations, such as Yobe, Edo, and Delta, police said they were not officially notified of the planned protests but were prepared to respond to any disruptions.
As Nigerians commemorate 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, today’s protests underscore the growing public unrest amid economic strain, insecurity, and calls for government accountability. Whether met with support or resistance, the day is poised to reflect deep-seated political and social tensions in the country.