A heavy police presence was observed at the Ikeja underbridge on Thursday, as groups of demonstrators began to assemble in commemoration of June 12 Democracy Day.
Operatives from the Nigeria Police Force’s Area F Division, alongside other security agents, were stationed in strategic positions around the protest site, maintaining surveillance as civil society groups and pro-democracy activists arrived in small numbers.
The demonstrators are gathering to protest worsening economic conditions and rising insecurity under the administration of President Bola Tinubu. Although the protest had not officially begun as of press time, the atmosphere remained tense with security operatives on high alert to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
June 12 is observed as Democracy Day in Nigeria to commemorate the annulled 1993 presidential election believed to have been won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola, a significant milestone in the country’s return to civilian rule.
Organizers say the protest is meant to reflect the "spirit of June 12" by holding government accountable and amplifying citizens' demands for justice, improved welfare, and security.
