#Take it Back Movement Nationwide Protest: Demonstrators Defy IG’s Directive, March Through Lagos Streets

Protesters defied warnings from the Inspector General of Police on Monday, taking to the streets of Lagos to voice opposition against cybercrime laws and the potential declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

The protest, organized by the Take It Back Movement (TIBM), saw participants gather at the Ikeja Under-Bridge before marching toward the Lagos State Government House and the State House of Assembly in Alausa to express their concerns.

Despite heavy security in the area, the demonstration remained peaceful.

The protest went ahead even after the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urged organizers to cancel the rally, citing its coincidence with the newly declared National Police Day on April 7. 

The police described the protest as "ill-timed" and criticized its potential to tarnish the reputation of the Nigeria Police.

Undeterred, TIBM proceeded with the march, asserting their right to peaceful assembly. Led by National Coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu, the protesters moved towards Alausa, with plans to continue to Ojota and Gani Fawehinmi Park, where Sanyaolu is scheduled to address the crowd.

By Iku Faith John

Minister Affirms Youths' Right to Protest Amid Police Dispersal of Demonstrators in Abuja

 

In the wake of police dispersing peaceful protesters with tear gas in Abuja's Maitama area, Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has emphasized the constitutional right of Nigerian youths to engage in peaceful demonstrations. 

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Management Conference of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Olawande stated, "Everyone has the right to protest. In fact, if I had the time, I would join the protest myself. There is freedom of expression for all."

The minister highlighted that protests serve as a vital platform for citizens to convey their concerns to leaders. However, he urged demonstrators to maintain non-violence and avoid damaging public or private property. "Such acts of violence will not be tolerated by the government," Olawande added..

Earlier in the day, members of the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organizations gathered in Abuja to protest issues including the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act and the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The protesters were met with tear gas from police forces aiming to disperse the crowd.

The federal government has reiterated its support for citizens' right to protest but cautioned against the destruction of national infrastructure during demonstrations. 

As tensions persist, the government calls for dialogue and peaceful engagement to address the grievances of Nigerian youths.

By Iku faith John