A major confrontation is brewing today between Nigerian security forces and members of the Take It Back Movement as the group vows to stage protests across major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan, despite strong warnings from the police.
The protests, organised in opposition to the recently passed Cybersecurity Act, the emergency declaration in Rivers State, and what protesters describe as the “illegal” extension of Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s tenure, are set to take place at key locations such as under the bridge in Ikeja, Lagos, the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt, and Iwo Road in Ibadan.
The Nigeria Police Force has issued multiple warnings against the demonstrations, labelling them “subversive” and ill-timed, particularly as they fall on the newly declared National Police Day, April 7. A heavy deployment of security personnel is expected nationwide.
Police spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said while the force acknowledges citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful protest, holding such an event on National Police Day is “perceived to be a deliberate attempt” to tarnish the image of the police.
“This is a day of national reflection and recognition for the force, and it is important that the occasion is not overshadowed by potential unrest or confrontation,” Adejobi said in a statement. He urged the organisers to reconsider the protest “in the interest of national unity and peace.”
However, protest leader and political activist Omoyele Sowore dismissed the police’s stance, insisting that the demonstrations will proceed as planned. “Regardless, today’s protest must go on across Nigeria. Nothing can stop the movement of the people,” he declared on Sunday night.
In Lagos, the police command said it had intelligence reports suggesting that “subversive groups” masquerading as civil society organisations were planning to incite unrest, using economic hardship and perceived suppression of free speech as justification.
Deputy Commissioner Tijani O. Fatai warned that such actions could escalate into violence, including possible attacks on government facilities and political figures. “Experience has shown that criminals may want to seize the opportunity of the protest to cause mayhem,” he said.
To counter any disruptions, Lagos State has activated an extensive security operation, drawing manpower from various units including the Rapid Response Squad, State Intelligence Department, Anti-Bomb Disposal Unit, and Police Mobile Force formations.
The protests, which organisers claim are a fight for democracy and human rights, coincide with a day the police say is dedicated to celebrating the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers nationwide. The government has also invited foreign police officials and diplomats to mark the day.
Despite the tension, protesters maintain they are exercising their democratic rights, calling on the government to listen to the voices of ordinary Nigerians.
As of this morning, security presence has intensified at likely protest hotspots, with roadblocks and surveillance teams reported in parts of Lagos and Abuja. Authorities continue to urge restraint as the situation unfolds.
