By Ayo Kehinde
The June 12 Democracy Day protest began early Thursday with heavy security presence observed at key locations in Lagos and Abuja, as citizens trooped out to demonstrate against economic hardship and insecurity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In Lagos, protesters gathered at the popular Ikeja Under-Bridge, from where they planned to march to the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota — a traditional convergence point for civil rights demonstrations.
Confirming the situation, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, assured residents of adequate security.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Hundeyin said:
“Democracy Day celebrants and protesters at Ikeja Under-Bridge. Adequate security on ground for celebrants and protesters alike. No cause for alarm. Your safety and security remains our priority.”
In the Federal Capital Territory, security was visibly tightened around the National Assembly complex in anticipation of President Tinubu’s scheduled address to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, Civil Defence Corps, and Sergeant-at-Arms were deployed across strategic entry points.
Vehicular movement within the vicinity was severely restricted, with only accredited lawmakers, invited guests, and essential staff granted access.
The protest, led by a coalition of civil society groups and pro-democracy activists, focused on growing concerns over the rising cost of living, food inflation, and worsening insecurity across the country.
Organisers say the demonstrations are aimed at drawing the government’s attention to the plight of ordinary Nigerians and demanding urgent reforms.
