A broad coalition of civil society organisations, labour unions, youth movements, community associations, and faith-based groups has announced June 12 as a day of nationwide protest in Nigeria. The demonstration aims to address escalating insecurity and worsening economic conditions across the country.
Coalition Leaders and Demands
The coalition, led by prominent activists including Femi Falana (SAN), Yinka Folarin, and Hassan Soweto, stated that the protest will highlight growing concerns over kidnappings, killings, and the rising cost of living. In a joint statement, the group argued that many Nigerians continue to face serious security threats despite repeated assurances from authorities.
“Innocent Nigerians are being killed, abducted, displaced, and traumatised while government responses have remained largely inadequate and ineffective,” the statement said. The coalition also called for the immediate release of persons currently held captive in several states, including Oyo, Borno, Ekiti, and Kwara.
Economic Hardship Blamed on Government Policies
Beyond security concerns, the organisers criticised economic policies they believe have worsened living conditions for millions of Nigerians. According to the coalition, fuel subsidy removal, rising fuel prices, currency depreciation, higher electricity tariffs, and the commercialisation of essential services have deepened poverty and weakened household incomes.
“Food prices have skyrocketed. Transportation costs have become unbearable. Small and medium-scale businesses are collapsing,” the statement added.
Call for Public Participation
The coalition urged Nigerians to participate in the June 12 protest, describing it as a collective effort to demand improved security and economic relief. “This protest is about the lives of our children and teachers in captivity. It is about the collective survival of ordinary Nigerians,” the organisers said.
