Esther Salifu
On June12, 2025, protesters gathered at Ikeja Underbridge in Lagos to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, voicing concerns over economic hardship and rising insecurity. The demonstration, organized by various civil society groups, proceeded despite a significant police presence.
In commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, demonstrators, including members of the Take It Back Movement, Education Rights Campaign, Coalition for Revolution, and Socialist Workers League, assembled at Ikeja Underbridge. They carried placards with messages such as “President Tinubu, let the poor breathe,” “Payment of living wage to all Nigerian workers now,” and “For another general strike with mass protest now.”
Security forces, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force’s Area F Division and the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, were deployed to the area. Despite the heavy security presence, the protesters remained peaceful, chanting solidarity songs and expressing their grievances over the country’s economic conditions and security challenges.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, had earlier assured residents of adequate security measures to maintain order during the planned protests. He warned that any protester found violating the rights of others would be sanctioned according to the law.
The protest highlights the ongoing struggles faced by Nigerians, including economic hardship and labor rights issues. The demonstrators’ calls for a living wage and improved working conditions reflect the urgent need for economic reforms in the country.
