Residents of Lagos and Oyo states took to the streets on Monday to join a nationwide protest led by the Take-It-Back Movement and various civil society organizations.
The protest was aimed at condemning the misuse of the Cybercrime Act by the Police and government officials, which the demonstrators argue has been weaponized against citizens.
The protesters decried the Act’s role in stifling free speech and press freedom, with many holding placards that read, “End Cybercrime Act Abuse” and “Protect Our Rights.”
One protester, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said, “The law has become a tool for silencing dissent, and we cannot stand by while our voices are being silenced.”
The protest was marked by significant police presence in both Lagos and Oyo, with the latter seeing demonstrators gather near Iwo Road in Ibadan, despite heavy security.
In a related development, Peter Obi commended the Nigerian Police for withdrawing their invitation to former Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi.
Obi described the invitation as “unnecessary” and praised the decision as a step toward upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens’ rights.
The protestors also highlighted the ongoing economic challenges, calling for greater government accountability. They urged for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and an end to the economic hardship plaguing the nation.
“This protest is not just about the law, but about our freedoms being eroded,” said a prominent activist.
The protests in Lagos and Oyo are just part of the larger movement that is gaining traction across Nigeria.