Operatives from the Lagos State Police Command on Monday prevented protesters from reaching the Lagos State Assembly complex, where they planned to deliver a letter detailing their demands. The Take-It-Back Movement, along with various civil society organizations, is leading the ongoing demonstration to highlight urgent national concerns, such as the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act and what they refer to as a “state of emergency” in Rivers State. The protesters first assembled at the Ikeja Under Bridge, showcasing placards with various messages to convey their frustrations. They then proceeded towards the state assembly complex, only to be met by armed police officers who had established a blockade a short distance from the entrance.
Disappointed by the police presence, the protesters insisted on submitting their letter. They remained at the location for about two hours, but no one came to speak with them. Juwon Sanyaolu, the national coordinator of the Take-It-Back Movement, accused the law enforcement officials of infringing on their rights to protest during an interview with journalists. He remarked, “The officers are obstructing our access to the House of Assembly. It belongs to the people, so why are they stopping us? They are hindering our constitutional rights to movement, peaceful assembly, and protest.”
Sanyaolu also called for the release of protesters who were reportedly arrested in different locations across the country where demonstrations occurred. Referring to the demonstration as a preliminary warning, Sanyaolu announced that another protest would be organized in August if the government does not address their demands. He stated, “At present, protesters have been detained in Abuja following their violent dispersal. We demand the immediate release of those arrested in Abuja, Yobe, Gombe, and Rivers States. This serves as a warning, and when we regroup in August, we will hope to mobilize the entire country and the world.”
He added, “We urge the federal government to discontinue the Cybercrime Act, the emergency rule in Rivers State, the demolition of homes in Oworonshoki and other areas of Lagos State, and to cease the trials of those charged with treason after the #EndBadGovernance protest.”
