Nigerian youths are rising—and this time, they’re not backing down. On Monday, April 7, 2025, several cities across the country witnessed waves of protests despite warnings from the Nigerian Police Force. From Lagos to Port Harcourt, Abuja to Ibadan, cdetermined young people under the Take-It-Back Movement took to the streets, demanding justice, better governance, and economic reforms.
But what sparked the uproar?
Police Warning Ignored, Protests Begin Anyway
The Nigeria Police had earlier warned the organisers to cancel the protests, calling the timing “ill-conceived and mischievous.” Their concern? That the protests would overshadow the National Police Day celebration. But prominent activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, dismissed the warning, insisting the protest was constitutionally protected and necessary.
The Take-It-Back Movement, known for its consistent activism, called Nigerians to action over a range of issues—none more pressing than the current economic hardship, increasing authoritarianism, and the political crisis in Rivers State.
What the Protesters Are Demanding
Although the protests didn’t hinge on a single demand, the grievances were clear:
- Repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which many say is being used to silence free speech.
- Reversal of the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
- Immediate reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whom protesters claim has been unlawfully suspended.
- End to economic suffering, police brutality, and political oppression
Placards reading “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe” captured the mood of a generation feeling stifled in their own country.
Port Harcourt and Abuja Turn Chaotic
While Ibadan’s protest remained peaceful, things turned ugly in Port Harcourt. Protesters were teargassed at Isaac Boro Park, chased by armed police, and several were reportedly beaten—including journalists who were simply doing their job. And yet, the protesters remained firm, saying they had notified the police in advance.
In Abuja, the capital city, security forces fired teargas at demonstrators gathered in Maitama. Sowore joined the protest, expressing solidarity with citizens fed up with hardship, inflation, and fear.
A Nationwide Cry for Change
“This is not just about one state or one law—it’s about the entire system,” said Juwon Sanyaolu, National Coordinator of the movement. He emphasized that the demonstration aimed to confront the rising authoritarian tendencies of the government and push for urgent relief for ordinary Nigerians.
Whether peaceful or chaotic, the message was loud: Nigerian youths are done whispering—they’re roaring. And unless the government begins to address their concerns, these protests may just be the beginning.
