In Nigeria, a fresh wave of protests planned by the “Take It Back” movement to mark Democracy Day on Thursday, 12 June 2025, was thwarted by a sweeping security crackdown. The movement, known for its vocal criticism of economic hardship and insecurity, had called for nationwide mobilisation. However, the heavy deployment of police and State security operatives in major cities, including Lagos and Abuja, dissuaded protesters, effectively stifling large gatherings and demonstrations.
The group’s leader, Juwon Sanyaolu, was once again outmanoeuvred by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, echoing a similar outcome in October 2024. The state’s robust show of force left only a handful of protesters able to voice their grievances, as most potential demonstrators were deterred by the visible and intimidating police presence. Security forces were especially concentrated around the National Assembly, where President Tinubu delivered his address to the nation in a joint sitting of Parliament.
During his speech, President Tinubu lauded his administration’s economic progress, claiming a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024 and a gradual decline in inflation, which he said was stabilising the prices of staples such as rice and beans. Yet, he made no mention of the social demands raised by the “Take It Back” movement. Concluding his remarks, Tinubu announced national honours for various figures, including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka and, posthumously, environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, marking a symbolic but politically calculated closure to the day.