Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Lagos on Democracy Day, marching along Kudirat Abiola Way in Oregun towards Ojota as part of the nationwide June 12 protest against insecurity, economic hardship, and anti-poor policies.
The demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans demanding the immediate release of abducted schoolchildren, teachers, and other Nigerians currently held captive by kidnappers, bandits, and other armed groups across the country.
Among the key messages raised during the procession were calls for improved security, an end to worsening economic hardship, and the reversal of policies that protesters described as anti-people and responsible for deepening poverty and suffering among ordinary Nigerians.
Participants repeatedly declared that “there can be no democracy without security,” arguing that millions of Nigerians continue to live under the threat of kidnappings, violent attacks, unemployment, hunger, and rising living costs.
The protesters also advocated for a mass working people’s political alternative capable of addressing the country’s social and economic challenges in the interests of workers, youths, students, farmers, traders, and other oppressed Nigerians.
The Lagos demonstration formed part of broader June 12 actions held in different parts of the country by civil society organisations, labour activists, youth groups, and pro-democracy campaigners seeking accountability, security, and improved living conditions.
