Protest: Take It Back movement request police protection in Lagos

The Take It Back (TIB) Movement, organisers of the planned June 12 Democracy Day protest, have formally requested protection from the Lagos State Police Command to ensure a peaceful demonstration.

In an open letter addressed to the Lagos Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, the TIB Lagos Coordinator, Adekunle Taofeek, notified the police of their planned action and emphasized the constitutional right of Nigerians to protest.

The letter, dated Tuesday and obtained by Chronicle NG, reads, “On June 12, 2025, the people of Nigeria, young and old, working class and unemployed, angry and awake, will take to the streets in peaceful protest against the unbearable insecurity and economic hardship that have strangled this nation.”

The movement described June 12 as a significant day for Nigerian democracy, stating that it should serve as a reminder of the country’s struggle for freedom.

“June 12 is not a date for silence but a reminder that Nigerians never begged for freedom. We have fought for it. And we will continue to fight, peacefully but fearlessly, until this country works for all of us.”

Emphasizing the legal backing for peaceful demonstrations, Adekunle cited the Nigerian Constitution.

“Protesting is not a request; it is a constitutional right. Sections 39 and 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grant every Nigerian the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. No law gives the police the power to crush or criminalist peaceful dissent.”

He urged the police not to intimidate demonstrators but to ensure their safety.

“Therefore, we demand that the Lagos State Police Command desist from any attempts to suppress, brutalise, or arrest peaceful protesters. Deploy officers to protect protesters, not to harass or assault them.”

The letter concluded with a call for professionalism:
“We expect your men to behave professionally and with restraint.“

June 12 has been officially recognized as Nigeria’s Democracy Day by the Federal Government. The date commemorates the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Moshood Abiola. This year also marks 26 years since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999.