Protesters in Lagos

Defying earlier warnings from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), youths under the banner of the Take-It-Back Movement took to the streets on Monday, staging peaceful protests across major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Rivers, and Oyo.

In Lagos, demonstrators wearing their signature orange berets gathered at the Ikeja Under Bridge before marching through key areas of the state capital. The protest was closely monitored by security personnel but remained peaceful.

The Nigerian Police Force had previously issued a statement advising the group to suspend its planned demonstrations, labelling the timing as “ill-conceived and mischievous”, particularly as it coincided with the National Police Day celebration.

However, activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore swiftly rejected the police’s claims, asserting that the protest was not intended to disrupt the police event. He reiterated the group’s right to protest and voice public grievances.

Although the movement are known for not always presenting specific demands during their marches, their demonstrations are often centred on pressing national issues. Monday’s protest highlighted concerns such as economic hardship, the president’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, and other socio-political grievances.

In Ibadan, Oyo State, protesters also gathered peacefully under the watch of security operatives. Similar demonstrations were reported in other states, with participants maintaining a calm and orderly stance throughout.

Despite police resistance, the Take-It-Back Movement continues to make its presence felt, calling attention to what they describe as growing dissatisfaction with the current state of governance in Nigeria.