Take It Back Movement Leads Nationwide Protest in Abuja Against Bad Governance and Free Speech Suppression
Protesters under the banner of the Take It Back Movement have gathered in Abuja for a powerful nationwide demonstration, calling out bad governance and the growing suppression of free speech in Nigeria.
The protesters, including activists, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, have taken to the streets of the capital city to demand urgent reforms and a government that is more accountable to the people.The protest, which is part of a larger, nationwide push for systemic change, focuses on what the movement describes as the Nigerian government's failure to address critical issues such as economic hardship, corruption, and the erosion of basic freedoms, particularly the right to free expression. The protesters are calling for the immediate repeal of laws they believe infringe on citizens' ability to speak freely, notably laws that they claim stifle free speech and activism.
“We are here today to make our voices heard, not just for ourselves but for the future of Nigeria,” said one of the protest leaders during the demonstration. “We are tired of bad governance, tired of the policies that are destroying our lives, and we will not be silenced. We demand change. We demand freedom.”
The Take It Back Movement, which has been a vocal advocate for good governance and justice in Nigeria, has become a significant platform for Nigerians frustrated by government actions that they perceive as failing to address the needs of the populace. This protest aims to further highlight the nation's deepening issues, such as widespread poverty, unemployment, and restrictions on freedom of expression, especially for those who speak out against government actions.
Protesters in Abuja were seen marching through major streets, chanting slogans and holding placards with messages calling for an end to corruption, better governance, and greater protection of citizens' rights. Many participants also voiced their concerns over the continued suppression of free speech, citing increasing incidents of arrests and harassment of activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens critical of the government.
The protest is part of a larger, coordinated series of demonstrations happening in different cities across Nigeria, with citizens in Lagos, Port Harcourt, and other major cities joining in solidarity. The Take It Back Movement has been organizing these protests to bring attention to what they view as an urgent need for political and legal reforms in the country.
Several prominent figures have expressed support for the movement, with activists and public personalities calling for a collective effort to ensure that the Nigerian government is held accountable for its actions. One protester shared, “This protest is not just about today. It's about securing a better tomorrow for all Nigerians, especially the next generation.”
The Nigerian police and security forces were present during the protest, with a heavy security presence to monitor the crowd. However, the demonstration remained largely peaceful, with no reports of violence as of the latest updates.
The Take It Back Movement has vowed to continue its nationwide campaign until the government listens to the people and makes the necessary changes to address issues of governance and free speech. As the protest continues to grow in both numbers and influence, many are watching closely to see how the government will respond to the mounting pressure from citizens demanding change.