#JUNE12PROTEST: End Economic Hardship tops Lagos Protesters’ Demands

Korede Abdullah in Lagos

Amid growing discontent over economic hardship and insecurity, members of the Take-It-Back Movement staged a peaceful nationwide protest at Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota, Lagos, on June 12 Democracy Day.

The rally, which took place under heavy police surveillance, followed an earlier agreement between the Lagos State Police Command and 15 civil society groups to restrict protests to the designated location to ensure order.

The protest comes despite police warnings about potential hijack attempts by miscreants.

Speaking at the scene, the National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, Comrade Juwon Sanyaolu, condemned the deteriorating state of security and rising cost of living in the country.

“We are here because Nigerians are suffering. Insecurity is everywhere. People are being kidnapped and killed, especially in the North, while the government remains silent,” he said.

The group also demanded a reversal of the fuel subsidy removal, reduction in electricity tariffs, repeal of the cybercrime act, and increased funding for education.

Protesters gathered peacefully at the agreed location, following a joint procession from the Ikeja Under-Bridge, in line with the pact reached with the police.

Our correspondent observed that scores of security personnel were stationed at the venue to maintain calm and prevent any potential breakdown of law and order.

While the Lekki Tollgate—a key site during the #EndSARS protests of 2020—was abandoned this year, the focus remained squarely on Ojota.

Two protesters who spoke with Africa Health Report (AHR) exclusively, voiced their frustrations. “This isn’t about politics. I can’t afford food, rent, or even basic healthcare anymore,” said Janet Olowu, a mother of two who joined the protests.

Another demonstrator, 26-year-old Adewale Musa, added, “We’re tired of empty promises. We came out today to say enough is enough—people are hungry and scared in their own country.” The protest remained peaceful as of press time, with no reports of violence or arrests.