TAKE-IT-BACK: PROTESTERS DEMAND REPEAL OF CYBERCRIME ACT, END TO DEMOLITIONS, ‘MILITARY RULE’ IN RIVERS
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
In a peaceful Nationwide protest on Monday, some protesters in Lagos has issued a bold call for nationwide action against what they describe as an “escalating crackdown” on free speech and civic freedoms under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
One of the conveners, identified as Dotun a prominent figure in the #EndSARS and #RevolutionNow movements, accused the Nigerian police allegedly aided by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun of weaponizing the Cybercrime Act against journalists, activists, opposition leaders, and ordinary citizens critical of the government.
“We are calling for the immediate repeal of the Cybercrime Act of 2024. It has become a tool of repression used to silence critics,” the activist declared.
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The protesters also accused President Tinubu of suspending Nigeria’s constitution and imposing “military rule” in Rivers State, calling the situation a clear violation of democratic norms.“The government of Tinubu has gone rogue. We will not accept this,” the speaker asserted, echoing the chants of protesters during the event.
The group identified itself as one of the original conveners of both the #EndSARS protests and the #RevolutionNow movement, citing mobilization efforts across 24 states and the diaspora dating back to 2019. They claimed credit for organizing protests on June 12, October 1, and across various dates in 2020, 2023, and 2024, with plans to continue in 2025.
“We won’t stop. June 12 was a warning protest. Now we are in April. If our demands are not met, we will return stronger. This time, it will be Aluta Infinito,” the spokesperson warned, invoking historic revolutionary chants.
The group outlined the following urgent demands:
- Immediate repeal of the Cybercrime Act and an end to its use against journalists and citizens.
- Reversal of alleged military rule in Rivers State and restoration of constitutional governance.
- Halt to all demolition activities displacing thousands, particularly in areas like Owoshoki.
- Declaration of a state of emergency on poverty, education, health, and national security.
- A functional and accessible healthcare system, following criticism of President Tinubu seeking medical attention abroad.
The activists lambasted the Tinubu administration for focusing on political repression rather than the core issues affecting millions of Nigerians.
“Over 120 million Nigerians live below the poverty line. Over 18 million children are out of school. Our healthcare is in shambles. Yet, the president is in France. Is that not an admission our system cannot treat a headache?” the speaker asked rhetorically.
With no signs of retreat, the group vowed continued mobilization unless their demands are addressed, promising larger protests than seen in recent years.
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