Democracy day: Protests hit Abuja, Lagos amid heavy security

As Nigeria observes Democracy Day today, demonstrators have taken to the streets in the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos.

Their protests are driven by concerns over the high cost of living and rising insecurity across the nation.

In anticipation of these demonstrations, security forces had heavily deployed armed personnel to key locations across both cities, with a particular focus on potential flashpoints.

The presence of these operatives was especially noticeable at major junctions and around the National Assembly, areas where protesters were likely to gather.

However, the protest commenced at the Apo area of Abuja, where demonstrators were seen chanting solidarity songs and waving placards to express their grievances.

Also in Lagos, protest has broken out with protesters massing at the Ikeja underbridge, are demanding the reversal of some policies of the present administration.

Despite the presence of security operatives, the protesters were seen displaying placards with various inscriptions such as “Reverse Electricity Tariff Hike”, “No one deserves a death sentence for protesting against hunger”, among others.

Commenting on the protest, the command’s spokesman, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said there was no cause for alarm. Adequate security on ground for celebrants and protesters alike. No cause for alarm. Your safety and security remain our priority.”

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the National Assembly to address a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives as part of the Democracy Day celebrations.

Persecondnews reports that Tinubu had cancelled his scheduled nationwide broadcast in the morning to commemorate Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary.