A coalition of civil society organisations, trade unions, youth groups and social movements has declared June 12, 2026, as a day of nationwide protest and mass action against worsening insecurity, rising hunger and deepening economic hardship across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the coalition said the planned protest is a response to what it described as the continued deterioration of living conditions in the country, despite repeated assurances from government authorities.
The group noted that many communities remain under constant attack by bandits, kidnappers and other armed groups, while security responses have failed to provide adequate protection for citizens.
It also demanded the immediate release of all persons currently held in captivity across various parts of the country, calling for urgent government intervention to restore safety and public confidence.
On the economic situation, the coalition criticised rising fuel prices, inflation, currency devaluation and increased electricity tariffs, which it said have pushed millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty.
It added that food prices and transportation costs have become unbearable, while small and medium-scale businesses continue to struggle under harsh economic conditions.
The coalition stated that the June 12 protest is aimed at compelling government action on insecurity and economic hardship, urging Nigerians across all sectors to participate in peaceful demonstrations nationwide.
Among the signatories are human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN); labour activist Hassan Taiwo Soweto of the #EndBadGovernance Movement; representatives of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR); the Joint Action Front (JAF); and the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), alongside activist Daniel Akande, representing The Anti-Imperialist organisation.
The coalition called on security agencies to respect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and protest.
It further described the mobilisation as a collective demand for justice, accountability and improved living conditions for ordinary Nigerians.
