Nationwide Protests Planned Against Tinubu’s Policies and Cybercrime Act

 

The Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement has announced plans for a nationwide demonstration on April 7, 2025, in response to what it describes as a clampdown on free speech and governance failures under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The protest is set to kick off in Abuja, with supporters also expected to mobilize in other parts of the country.

At the heart of the demonstration is a strong opposition to the Cybercrime Act, which protest organizers argue is being weaponized to silence journalists, activists, and social media users. The movement is also calling for an end to the controversial emergency rule in Rivers State, which it describes as an undemocratic suspension of governance.

Protest Against Free Speech Suppression

Speaking in an interview with PUNCH on Monday, Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of TIB, emphasized that the primary objective of the protest is to demand the repeal of the Cybercrime Act.

“The law is no longer just about cyber-related offenses. It has been turned into a tool of suppression. Journalists and activists are being targeted, arrested, and intimidated. Even social media users like SeaKing have not been spared,” Sanyaolu explained.

Over the past year, numerous journalists have faced harassment and detention by state actors under this law. Victims include Segun Olatunji, a former First News editor; Daniel Ojukwu of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism; Dayo Aiyetan, Executive Director of the International Centre for Investigative Reporting; and Nurudeen Akewushola, an investigative journalist. The rising pattern of intimidation has fueled concerns about press freedom in Nigeria.

Opposition to Emergency Rule in Rivers

Another key demand of the movement is the reversal of the emergency rule in Rivers State. The federal government’s decision to suspend the state’s governor and legislative body has sparked outrage among citizens and political stakeholders, who see it as an unconstitutional overreach.

“This is nothing short of military rule in disguise,” said Sanyaolu. “The government has shut down democratic institutions in Rivers and replaced them with an executive dictatorship.”

Stakeholders across the political spectrum have condemned the move, calling for the reinstatement of the state government. Legal experts have also warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria.

Mounting Hardship and Widespread Discontent

Beyond the issues of governance and free speech, the protests are also fueled by growing frustration over economic hardship. Since assuming office, President Tinubu’s administration has implemented a series of economic policies that have led to skyrocketing inflation, worsening living conditions, and increased unemployment.

“The cost of living is unbearable,” lamented one Abuja resident. “People can barely afford to eat, yet the government seems more focused on silencing critics than addressing our suffering.”

Nigeria has seen multiple protests in recent months over economic hardship and insecurity. Demonstrations in states like Enugu and Ondo have highlighted concerns over safety, with citizens calling for stronger measures to tackle rising crime and violence.

Nationwide Mobilization Underway

While the main protest is set to take place at the National Assembly in Abuja, organizers have made it clear that the movement is nationwide. Flyers circulating on social media indicate that other cities will also host demonstrations, though the exact locations are yet to be announced.

Sanyaolu assured that more details would be shared in the coming days, urging Nigerians to take a stand.

“This is beyond politics. This is about the future of our country. We cannot allow bad governance, dictatorship, and oppression to continue unchecked,” he stated.

With just days to go before the April 7 protests, all eyes are on the Nigerian government’s response. Will authorities heed the calls for reform, or will they attempt to suppress the growing movement? One thing is certain: Nigerians are ready to make their voices heard.