A nationwide protest set for today by the Take-It-Back (TIB) movement has sparked a fierce debate between organizers and Nigerian police over the legitimacy and timing of the demonstration, which aims to challenge the controversial Cybercrime Act and the federal government’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State. While the organizers have labeled the protest a necessary act to protect free speech and civil liberties, the police have expressed concerns over the protest’s timing and potential for disruption.
The protest, officially titled “Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Free Speech Suppression,” has gained traction across various regions of the country. Protesters are demanding the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which they argue is being used as a tool of government overreach to silence citizens. The protesters are also calling for an end to the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State, which they believe undermines the democratic process and empowers the government to exercise authoritarian control over the region.
Protest Plans and Core Demands
The protest is slated to take place at multiple key locations across the country, each addressing regional issues while uniting around the overarching demand for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act. In Lagos, protesters are expected to converge under the Ikeja bridge, while in Ibadan, they will gather at Iwo Road. Port Harcourt, Rivers State, will serve as a focal point for the protest, with the rally set to begin at Isaac Boro Park.
Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of TIB, explained the group’s reasons for organizing the protest. He cited the increasing misuse of the Cybercrime Act by authorities to suppress free expression and stifle dissent, emphasizing that the act has been used to target journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens for voicing opinions critical of the government. Furthermore, Sanyaolu argued that the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State, which has effectively suspended democratic governance in the region, is a direct affront to the constitution. He called on the government to immediately lift the emergency rule and restore full democratic rights to the people of Rivers.
“Our core demands are simple,” Sanyaolu said in a statement. “We demand the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which has been weaponized to stifle free speech, and we call for an end to the state of emergency in Rivers State, which has undermined the democratic process.”
Omoyele Sowore and Other Activists Rally Behind the Protest
Omoyele Sowore, a prominent activist and presidential candidate for the African Action Congress (AAC), has publicly declared his support for the protest. Sowore stressed that the movement’s broader objectives are to highlight the urgent need for political reforms and challenge the government’s increasing authoritarianism. Sowore pointed out that Nigerians across the country face a variety of issues, from economic hardship to political repression, and that the protest provides a platform for citizens to express their frustrations.
“The protest is not just about the Cybercrime Act,” Sowore explained. “It’s a response to the larger issues facing Nigerians today—issues such as the high cost of living, the suppression of free speech, and the erosion of our democratic rights. In Rivers, for instance, people are protesting the ongoing state of emergency, which they see as an affront to their constitutional rights.”
Sowore further emphasized that the protest is meant to be inclusive, with participants allowed to voice their concerns based on the most pressing issues in their respective regions. “People in Rivers want to challenge the state of emergency, while those in other regions, like Kogi, may focus on other local grievances, such as the treatment of specific individuals,” he noted. “The common thread is the demand for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and the restoration of democratic rights across the nation.”
Support from Civil Society and Trade Unions
A broad coalition of civil society organizations and trade unions has also expressed its support for the protest. Amnesty International’s Nigerian Director, Isa Sanusi, issued a statement urging the Nigerian authorities to respect the rights of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their views. Sanusi reminded the government that the right to peaceful protest is enshrined in both Nigeria’s constitution and international human rights treaties to which the country is a signatory. He also warned against attempts to suppress the protest through intimidation or violent tactics.
“The Nigerian authorities must ensure that security agencies respect and facilitate the right to peaceful protest,” Sanusi said. “This protest is an opportunity for the government to listen to the people and uphold their constitutional and international human rights obligations.”
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has also voiced its support for the protest, stressing that peaceful demonstrations are an essential part of any functioning democracy. An NLC representative noted that Nigerians have the right to protest, especially when their fundamental rights, including the right to free speech, are being violated. The NLC has also called on the police to ensure the safety of protesters and prevent any attempts by criminal elements to infiltrate and disrupt the peaceful demonstrations.
“Any group that organizes a peaceful protest aimed at advancing democracy and securing the rights of citizens will always have our support,” the NLC representative said. “We stand with the protesters in calling for an end to cyberbullying and the restoration of constitutional order in Rivers State.”
Support from Other Civil Society Groups
Similarly, the Joint Action Front (JAF), a prominent umbrella body for pro-people civil society organizations, has pledged its full support for the protest. Abiodun Aremu, the Secretary of JAF, called the protest a crucial moment for Nigerians to stand up against the “tyrannical rule” and “anti-people policies” of the current government. He encouraged all of JAF’s affiliates and allies to participate in the protest and to continue pushing for a system change.
“We cannot afford to tire in our fight against the neo-liberal regime that is perpetuating injustice and exploitation,” Aremu said. “This protest is an important step in the ongoing struggle for a fairer and more just society.”
The Movement for Socialist Alternative (MSA), another JAF affiliate, also expressed its unwavering support for the protest, calling it a vital expression of democratic rights. MSA General Secretary Daggar Tolar emphasized that the right to protest is fundamental in a democracy and that the government must not criminalize such acts of resistance. Tolar called on the police to ensure that protesters are not subjected to intimidation or violence.
Police Criticism and Security Concerns
In contrast, the Nigerian Police Force has strongly criticized the timing and motives behind the protest. Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi issued a statement describing the protest as “ill-timed” and “mischievous,” noting that it coincides with a scheduled event to celebrate the police’s contributions to national security. The police also questioned the protesters’ motives, suggesting that the demonstration could be an attempt to disrupt national security events attended by dignitaries, including foreign diplomats and inspectors-general of police.
“We are not against the right of citizens to peacefully assemble,” Adejobi stated, “but we are concerned about the timing of this protest, given that it coincides with an important national security event. We urge the organizers to engage with the proper government institutions to address their concerns rather than disrupting national events.”
The Lagos State police command has also issued a directive to enhance security across the state in anticipation of the protest. A circular from Deputy Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai warned that subversive groups might use the protest as a cover for criminal activities, such as attacks on government facilities and opposition figures. The police have stated that they will take all necessary precautions to prevent any disruptions to public order.
As the nationwide protest approaches, it remains unclear whether the organizers will succeed in carrying out their planned demonstration in the face of strong opposition from the police. However, the protest has already ignited a crucial national conversation about the rights of citizens to challenge oppressive laws and government actions. The outcome of today’s events will likely shape future discussions on free speech, the rule of law, and the balance of power in Nigeria’s democracy.
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