Young demonstrators affiliated with the Take-It-Back Movement organised protests in Abuja, Lagos, Oyo, and Rivers on Monday, despite warnings from police.
Gatekeepers News reports that the rallies began in Lagos, where participants, identifiable by their signature orange berets, gathered at the Ikeja Under Bridge and marched through key thoroughfares, singing solidarity songs while being monitored by law enforcement officers.
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) earlier requested that the Take-It-Back Movement cancel its planned nationwide protest, labeling it as “ill-conceived and mischievous.” In response, activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore dismissed these concerns and denied that the timing of the protest was intended to disrupt the National Police Day celebrations.
The Take-It-Back Movement’s protests have not focused on specific demands, though they address various national issues, including economic conditions and the state of emergency declared by the president in Rivers State.
In Oyo, demonstrators held a peaceful protest in the state capital, Ibadan, while security forces were present to maintain order.
However, tensions escalated in Port Harcourt, where police used tear gas against protesters at the Isaac Boro Park. Reports suggested that some protesters, including journalists covering the event, were subjected to violence by the police.
The protests were communicated to the police through a letter dated April 3, 2025, in which protesters outlined their intent to express grievances, emphasizing that their demonstration was intended to be peaceful. Key grievances highlighted included calls for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Protesters voiced their belief that the current government in Rivers State is not representative of the people and asserted their democratic right to demand proper governance.
In Abuja, demonstrators faced a similar response from police, who dispersed groups gathered in the Maitama area using tear gas, causing many to flee for safety.
Participants in Abuja carried placards with messages like “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe,” raising awareness about their concerns throughout the Federal Capital Territory.
Omoyele Sowore was present at the protest, reinforcing his support for the movement.
The National Coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, Juwon Sanyaolu, stated that the protests are designed to resist what he characterized as “increasing authoritarianism” from the current government and seek urgent assistance for Nigerians facing inflation and insecurity.
