The planned Democracy Day protest by the #EndBadGovernance Movement in Lagos is a significant reflection of Nigeria’s growing civic dissatisfaction, particularly with the worsening economic conditions and perceived democratic backsliding.
Development Diaries reports that, according to the organisers, the protest will be peaceful and is aimed at highlighting worsening economic hardship, rising cost of living, and what they describe as the shrinking of civil liberties since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.
Rising inflation, food insecurity, fuel price hikes, and a steady erosion of civil liberties have sparked outrage among citizens, especially the youth and working-class communities.
That the protest is scheduled for 12 June, a date symbolic of Nigerians’ long-standing struggle for democratic governance, underscores the depth of public frustration with the current administration’s failure to meet the social and economic aspirations of the people.
It is troubling, however, that the protest organisers have raised concerns about evasive tactics from the Lagos State Police Command, which allegedly reneged on an agreed meeting and continues to shift engagement terms.
Such actions are not good for the growth of democracy.
The right to peaceful assembly is protected under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) and international human rights law.
While the police have said they are willing to protect protesters during the 12 June demonstration, they must stand by their word and not repeat the mistakes of the past.
In previous protests, we have seen security officers open fire, use tear gas, and arrest peaceful demonstrators despite earlier assurances of protection.
This must not happen again.
Development Diaries calls on the Commissioner of Police for Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh to ensure that no protester is harassed, harmed, or arrested for exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
The duty of the police is to serve and protect all citizens, including those who speak truth to power.
We also call on President Bola Tinubu, who promised to preserve democracy and uphold the legacy of 12 June, to demonstrate leadership by ensuring that law enforcement respects civil rights.
He must speak clearly that in the Nigeria he leads, citizens are not enemies of the state for speaking up. If his administration is sincere about listening to the voices of ordinary Nigerians, then 12 June should be a moment of reflection, not repression.
Anything short of this will deepen distrust and reinforce the belief that government only honours democracy in words, not in action.
Photo source: HumAngle
