Protesters on Friday returned to the streets of Lagos in a fresh #EndBadGovernance demonstration, using Democracy Day as a platform to call for urgent government intervention on worsening economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.
The procession, which featured activists, civil society organisations, and concerned residents, was largely peaceful. Demonstrators carried placards with messages such as “Free All Captives Now,” “End Anti-People Policies,” and “Living Wage Now, Jobs for All,” highlighting their demands for better governance and improved living conditions.
The protest comes against the backdrop of recent mass abductions reported in parts of Oyo and Borno states, as well as ongoing economic pressure faced by citizens across the country.
Participants urged authorities to take swift action to address inflation, high transport fares, unemployment, and declining purchasing power affecting millions of Nigerians.
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, was present at the demonstration, where he reinforced calls for governance reforms and stronger protection of citizens’ rights.
Falana had earlier joined civil society groups in declaring June 12 as a day of protest, citing insecurity, hunger, and widespread economic hardship.
Security personnel were deployed to monitor the protest and maintain order throughout the march.
Meanwhile, a separate group also gathered in support of government policies, expressing confidence in ongoing economic reforms.
The pro-government demonstrators carried banners reading “Better Days Ahead for Nigeria,” urging citizens to remain patient, saying the reforms are aimed at long-term economic recovery and national stability.