In Nigeria: Youths Defy Police Warning, Stage Nationwide Protests with 'Take-It-Back Movement'

 

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE PROTEST 

The Take-It-Back Movement staged protests in multiple states, including Lagos, Abuja, Oyo, and Rivers, despite police warnings to cancel the event. The police described the timing as "ill-conceived and mischievous," but protesters defied the warning, marching through major roads while chanting solidarity songs and wearing orange berets.

In Lagos, the rally began at the Ikeja Under Bridge, with police officers present to monitor the situation. The Take-It-Back Movement has been active in organizing protests on various issues, including the Nigerian economy and the president's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

The Nigeria Police Force urged the movement to cancel its planned nationwide protest, but the protesters chose to proceed. Omoyele Sowore, an activist and former presidential candidate, dismissed the police's concerns, rejecting claims that the protest was intended to undermine the National Police Day celebration. The Take-It-Back Movement has been vocal on various issues, including justice and human rights, as seen in their recent statement addressing a sex-for-marks scandal in a Lagos school.

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The Take-It-Back Movement staged protests in multiple states, including Lagos, Oyo, and Rivers, despite police warnings to cancel the event. The Nigeria Police Force described the timing as "ill-conceived and mischievous," but activist Omoyele Sowore dismissed their concerns, saying the protest wasn't intended to undermine National Police Day celebrations.

Protests Turn Violent in Rivers State

In Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, police fired teargas at protesters at Isaac Boro Park after warning them not to gather. The demonstrators, however, refused to disperse, chanting, "Nobody can tell us where not to gather, we are Rivers people." Some protesters and journalists were beaten by policemen.

Grievances and Demands

They demand the reinstatement of the act. They want the governor to return to office, citing a "social contract" with him, not the sole administrator. They claim the current government in Rivers State is "alien" and "unconstitutional."

Peaceful Protests in Other States

In contrast, protests in Oyo State, particularly in Ibadan, remained peaceful, with security operatives present to maintain order. The Take-It-Back Movement has been active in organizing protests on various issues, including the Nigerian economy and human rights abuses.

More About Rivers and Abuja

Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organizations demonstrated against various national issues. In Abuja, protesters gathered at the Maitama area, carrying placards with slogans like "Stop the Repression" and "Let Us Breathe". However, police intervened, dispersing the crowd with tear gas canisters and forcing many to flee for safety.

The protests were sparked by several key concerns. The misuse of the Cybercrime Act was a major issue, with protesters alleging that law enforcement authorities were exploiting the act. Economic hardship was another significant concern, with demonstrators highlighting the worsening economic situation in the country. Additionally, the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu was a point of contention.

Despite warnings from the Nigeria Police Force to cancel the rally, the protesters proceeded with the demonstration. The police response was similar in both Abuja and Rivers State, with tear gas used to disperse protesters. Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore was among those present in Abuja to support the protest.

Omoyele Sowore speaks at the protest ground in Abuja on April 7, 2025

 

 Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore joined protesters in Abuja to show solidarity with the Take-It-Back Movement. The movement's National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, stated that the protest aims to resist the government's "increasing authoritarianism" and demand relief for Nigerians struggling with inflation and insecurity.

The protest, held at the National Communications Commission (NCC) in Abuja, drew attention to Nigeria's economic situation, digital restrictions, and the treatment of police officers. Demonstrators carried signs with messages such as "Censorship kills creativity" and "Arresting critics won't fix bad governance," accusing the government of misusing the Cybercrime Act and neglecting the welfare of police personnel.

Sowore criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration for restricting free speech and disconnecting from the struggles of Nigerians. He also called for unity between citizens and police officers, condemning the poor treatment of officers despite their low wages. The protest also targeted the Inspector General of Police, accusing him of staying beyond the legal age limit of 60.