In Lagos, protesters gathered under the Ikeja Bridge, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards to demand accountability and improved living conditions.
As Nigerians mark Democracy Day, members of the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement in Lagos, Oyo, Ondo and some other states took to the streets on Thursday to protest what they described as worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and anti-people policies under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
In Lagos, protesters gathered under the Ikeja Bridge, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards to demand accountability and improved living conditions.
Simultaneously, members of the movement in Akure, Ondo State, gathered at Cathedral Junction, urging citizens to become more socially conscious and to assert their democratic rights.
In Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, protesters gathered at Mokola.
The protest was organised to sensitise the public about the importance of civic participation, including the right to protest and influence democratic decision-making processes.
June 12, which commemorates Nigeria’s return to civilian rule and honours the annulled 1993 presidential election, has increasingly become a day for civic action.
Many Nigerians have used the occasion to draw attention to the failures of successive governments to address widespread poverty, corruption, and insecurity.
This year’s protests reflect growing discontent over the economic challenges facing the country, including rising inflation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and high unemployment rates.
The TIB Movement has been a vocal critic of the current administration and has repeatedly called for reforms that prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
Police presence was noticeable at the protest sites, but there were no reports of arrests as of the time of filing this report.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has assured protesters and residents that their safety remains a top priority as demonstrators gathered under the Ikeja Bridge to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said there was no cause for alarm, emphasising that officers were fully on the ground to maintain law and order during the peaceful protest.
He said, "Democracy Day celebrants and protesters at Ikeja Underbridge…”
"Adequate security on ground for celebrants and protesters alike. No cause for alarm. Your safety and security remains our priority," Hundeyin added.