A large coalition of civil society organisations, labour groups, youth movements, community associations, and faith-based bodies took to the streets of Lagos on Friday in a major protest over worsening insecurity and the rising cost of living across Nigeria.
The demonstration drew participants from different parts of the state who say living conditions have become increasingly unbearable for ordinary citizens.
Politics Nigeria reports that the protesters gathered at Ikeja Under Bridge, a major convergence point in the state capital, before marching in an organised procession.
They demanded urgent intervention from the Federal Government, insisting that the economic situation and security challenges require immediate and practical solutions.
According to the coalition, the action was triggered by what they described as escalating hardship, deepening insecurity, and policy decisions that continue to weigh heavily on households and small businesses.
They argued that many Nigerians are struggling to cope with inflation, unemployment pressures, and rising transport and food costs.
During the protest, demonstrators carried placards with strong messages directed at government authorities. Some of the inscriptions read: “End all anti-people policies now,” “End hunger,” “Free all captives now,” “Decent minimum wage,” “No democracy without security,” “For a living wage and mass job creation, and “Tinubu has failed Nigeria.” The crowd repeatedly called for accountability and improved governance.
However, the organisers urged both federal and state authorities to prioritise citizens’ welfare, stressing that security and economic stability must go hand in hand. They also called for urgent policy reviews aimed at reducing inflationary pressure and creating employment opportunities, especially for young people.
