Protests Mark Democracy Day Across Nigeria as Falana, Falz Lead Calls Against Hardship, Insecurity

Thousands of Nigerians joined Democracy Day protests in several cities on Thursday as human rights lawyer Femi Falana, musician and activist Falz, civil society groups and youth organisations demanded urgent action on worsening insecurity, hunger and economic hardship across the country.

The demonstrations, which were held in locations including Lagos, Abuja, Rivers and other states, followed a nationwide mobilisation by a coalition of civil society organisations, labour activists, youth groups and community associations.

Organisers said the protests were intended to draw attention to rising living costs, unemployment, kidnappings and violent attacks across the country.

In Lagos, protesters gathered at Ikeja Underbridge before marching to Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as they called on the government to address citizens’ concerns.

Similar gatherings were reported in other parts of the country as Nigerians marked the 27th anniversary of the restoration of democratic rule.

The coalition had declared June 12 “a day of nationwide protest and mass action against worsening insecurity, escalating economic hardship and the continuous deterioration of the living conditions of millions of Nigerians.”

Ahead of the protests, Falana and other organisers argued that many Nigerians had little reason to celebrate Democracy Day while communities continued to face terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and deadly attacks.

They said “innocent citizens are being killed, abducted and displaced” and maintained that government efforts to tackle insecurity remained inadequate.

The organisers also cited inflation, poverty and the rising cost of living as key reasons for the demonstrations.

According to the coalition, the protests were aimed at drawing attention to “growing challenges confronting citizens,” including insecurity, unemployment and hunger.

While government officials celebrated Democracy Day with official events, protesters used the occasion to demand reforms and insist that the dividends of democracy must be reflected in the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.