The Nigeria Police Force resorted to using tear gas on peaceful protesters in Abuja on Monday, as demonstrators took to the streets demanding government intervention in the country’s worsening economic situation.
The protests, organized by the Take-It-Back Movement in partnership with several civil society groups, occurred in the Maitama area of the capital, coinciding with National Police Day events at Eagle Square.
The protesters voiced their concerns about the country’s economic decline, rising repression, and the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act. Their actions aimed to bring attention to what they describe as increasing authoritarian practices under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
Reports from the scene indicate that the protesters, many of whom were human rights advocates and citizens from various walks of life, held signs with messages such as “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe.”
Among those leading the protest was Omoyele Sowore, a prominent human rights activist and former presidential candidate.
National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, played a central role in organizing the demonstration. In his statements, Sanyaolu noted the primary grievances that motivated the protest.
These included the rising inflation that has left many Nigerians struggling to afford basic goods and services, the increasing insecurity across the nation, and the controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The demonstration also came at a time when the Nigerian government had heightened security measures around the Three Arms Zone, where the National Police Day celebrations were taking place.
