Despite a warning issued by Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, a human rights group known as the “Take It Back Movement” took to the streets of Lagos State on Monday to protest against the rising cost of food and the overall high cost of living in the country.
The protest, held in defiance of the police warning, saw protesters carrying placards with various messages voicing their grievances regarding the current economic challenges facing Nigerians. The demonstration took place at the Ojuelegba under the bridge area of Lagos State.
Juwon Sanyaolu, the TIB National Coordinator, emphasized that the protest was a manifestation of the people’s resolve against oppressive conditions and economic hardship. Despite attempts by the police to thwart the protest, Sanyaolu affirmed the determination of Lagosians to express their discontent.
He stated, “Yes, despite police attempts to frustrate the people, Lagosians stood their ground. The police are paid by taxpayers’ money, they are meant to secure us. We were able to march from Yaba Labour House to Maryland. The protest will continue tomorrow, and updates will be given. We will join NLC in their nationwide mass action to put an end to this hardship created by the ruling elite.”
The protesters presented demands including the immediate reversal of fuel subsidy removal and the floating of the naira, among other policies imposed on Nigerians by international bodies like the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The protest also saw participation from members of other civil society organizations such as the Joint Action Front and the Coalition for Revolution. Despite the presence of police officers and personnel from the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, the protesters remained steadfast in their demonstration against economic hardship.
