[BREAKING] Democracy Day: Protest begins in Lagos amid tight security

Protesters, on Wednesday morning, stormed the Ikeja Underbridge in Lagos as the country marks the 2024 Democracy Day.

There is, however, a heavy security presence, as policemen and officials of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps are sighted at the venue.

The protesters, in their number, chanted solidarity songs as they wielded placards and banners.

Some of the placards had inscriptions like: ‘President Tinubu, let the poor breathe’, ‘For another general strike with mass protest now’, ‘Payment of living wage to all Nigerian workers now.”

News Direct reports that some civil society groups, including the Take It Back Movement, the Education Rights Campaign, the Coalition for Revolution and the Socialist Workers League, are spearheading the protest.

“We won’t tolerate Violence” – DSS issues warning on June 12 Protests

The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a warning to the General Public about any planned protests scheduled to hold today, June 12.

In a statement signed by Dr. Peter Afunanya(Phd), the spokesperson of the agency, the service will not tolerate any form of violence or breakdown of law and order.

“The Attention of the Department of State Security Service, DSS, has been drawn to plans by certain individuals and groups to stage physical protests in some parts of the country on 12th June, 2024. The protests are designed with sinister objectives to coincide with the Democracy Day Celebration. While citizens may have the rights of assembly and expression, such freedoms should not be used to undermine public safety and national security.”

“The determination by some non-state actors to incite mass disaffection through demonstrations that may turn violent will not be tolerated. However, it is instructive to note that violent demonstrations are at variance with the peaceful disposition of the Federal Government to amicably address all contentions including the minimum wage. Citizens are, therefore, called upon to resist any persuasions to be lawless or cause disorder and anarchy in the nation. Displeased persons are rather encouraged to appropriately channel their grievances through the right channels and procedures.”

“Consequently, the DSS reaffirms its unequivocal position to protect the country from inimical acts being orchestrated by disgruntled groups to cause a breakdown of law and order.”

“It will also sustain collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, including sister security agencies, to maintain the peace as well as protect lives and property across the nation. Law abiding citizens are enjoined to go about their businesses without fear.”