Hundreds of protesters on Friday returned to the streets of Lagos for a fresh #EndBadGovernance demonstration, using the Democracy Day period to demand urgent government action on economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and the rising cost of living.
The protest drew activists, civil society groups and concerned Nigerians, who marched peacefully through parts of the city carrying placards with messages including “Free All Captives Now,” “End Anti-People Policies Now,” and “For a Living Wage and Mass Creation of Employment.”
Protesters voiced concern over the country’s worsening economic situation and urged authorities to take decisive action to tackle the challenges facing citizens.
The demonstration came amid recent mass abductions in Oyo and Borno states and growing public frustration over rising living costs and economic hardship.
Participants also pointed to the effects of inflation, higher transport fares and declining purchasing power on ordinary Nigerians, calling for policies that would ease the pressure on citizens.
Among those at the protest was prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, who joined calls for better governance, stronger security and economic reforms to improve citizens’ welfare.
Falana had earlier joined several civil society groups in declaring June 12 a day of nationwide protests, citing widespread insecurity, hunger and the economic difficulties affecting millions of Nigerians.
Security personnel were deployed to monitor the protest and maintain order throughout the exercise.
Meanwhile, a separate group of demonstrators gathered at the venue to show support for the Federal Government’s ongoing economic and policy reforms.
The pro-government supporters marched with banners carrying messages such as “Better Days Ahead for Nigeria,” urging Nigerians to be patient and allow the reforms to deliver results.
According to the group, the government’s policies are aimed at repositioning the economy for long-term recovery, stability and sustainable growth.
