The demonstrators marched peacefully through parts of the city, displaying placards with inscriptions such as “Free All Captives Now,” “End Anti-People Policies Now,” and “For a Living Wage and Mass Creation of Employment.” The protesters said many Nigerians were facing severe hardship due to the increasing cost of living and declining economic conditions.
Participants also drew attention to the country’s security challenges, referencing the recent mass abductions reported in Oyo and Borno states, which occurred within hours of each other. They urged the authorities to take decisive measures to improve security and protect citizens.
Beyond insecurity, the protesters expressed concerns over soaring inflation, rising transportation costs and the diminishing purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians. They called for policies that would ease the burden on citizens and improve living standards.
Among those present was prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, who joined demonstrators in advocating reforms and better governance. Falana had previously aligned with several civil society organisations in designating June 12 as a day of nationwide protest, citing widespread hunger, insecurity and economic difficulties affecting millions of Nigerians.
Popular rapper and songwriter Falz also participated in the demonstration. During the protest, he called on the government to improve security around schools and ensure the safety of students across the country.
Security personnel were deployed to monitor the protest, which remained largely peaceful.
Meanwhile, a separate group of demonstrators staged a counter-rally in support of the government’s economic and policy reforms. Carrying banners bearing the inscription “Better Days Ahead for Nigeria,” the group appealed to citizens to remain patient, arguing that the ongoing reforms were necessary to achieve long-term economic recovery and sustainable growth.