Sowore, Supporters Stage Protests in Abuja, Lagos Over Hardship and Insecurity

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and members of the #TakeItBack Movement staged coordinated protests in Abuja, Lagos and other parts of Nigeria on Wednesday, calling attention to rising economic hardship, insecurity, inflation and what they described as political repression under President Bola Tinubu's administration.

The demonstrations, held under the theme "Festival of the Oppressed," attracted protesters carrying placards with messages such as "Nigeria is Bleeding," "Rescue Our People Now," "Free All Political Prisoners," and "No to Xenophobia."

In Lagos, demonstrators gathered in the Maryland area, chanting pro-democracy slogans before security personnel dispersed the crowd with tear gas. A heavy security presence was also observed around the protest venues.

The protesters demanded urgent government action to rescue Nigerians kidnapped by bandits, introduce a ₦500,000 national minimum wage, withdraw legal charges against activists, including Sowore, and address reported xenophobic attacks against Nigerians living in South Africa.

Speaking during the Abuja protest, Sowore said the demonstration was aimed at drawing attention to what he described as the country's worsening socio-economic conditions. He also called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu and an end to the prosecution of activists and critics of the government.

According to Sowore, the nationwide demonstrations mark the beginning of a series of actions intended to push for political and economic reforms across the country.

Meanwhile, a coalition of civil society organisations held a separate rally in Abuja, urging the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate and arrest Sowore over statements they alleged could threaten national security.

The coalition's spokesperson, Collins Eshiofeh, praised President Tinubu's administration for its security efforts and implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He also commended the approval of a new national minimum wage and urged the government to remain focused on its policies.

The coalition further alleged, without presenting publicly available evidence, that Sowore's activities could undermine national stability. Sowore has not publicly responded to the coalition's allegations beyond his remarks made during the protest.

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