Nationwide Protest: Demonstrators Defy IG’s Order, Flood Lagos Streets, Gather at Ikeja Under-Bridge

Lagos – Despite warnings from police, protesters took to the streets of Lagos on Monday to demonstrate against cybercrime and the perceived threat of emergency rule in Rivers State. Even with tight security in the area, the demonstration remained peaceful. This protest comes just a day after the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, urged organizers to cancel the planned nationwide protest scheduled for April 7, 2025.

In a statement released on Sunday by Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the protest was described as “ill-timed,” as it coincided with the newly designated National Police Day. “In line with global best practices for celebrating police institutions, the Nigerian Government has declared April 7 as National Police Day,” the statement read. “The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is questionable and perceived as a deliberate and unpatriotic act aimed at maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole,” the police statement continued.

“The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organizers to cancel the planned protest.” However, the Take It Back Movement proceeded with their demonstration in Lagos, insisting on their right to peaceful assembly. Led by the National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, protesters continued their march toward Alausa, making their way to Ojota and Gani Fawehinmi Park, where Sanyaolu is expected to address the gathering