Despite warnings from Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, the “Take It Back Movement” took to the streets of Lagos State on Monday, decrying the skyrocketing food prices and the exorbitant cost of living in Nigeria.
Protesters flooded the Ojuelegba under the bridge area, brandishing placards bearing various grievances, highlighting the prevailing economic hardships gripping the nation.
Juwon Sanyaolu, the TIB National Coordinator, emphasized that the protest symbolized the people’s resistance against oppressive conditions and economic struggles.
He stated defiantly, “Yes, despite police attempts to frustrate the people, Lagosians stood their ground.”
Sanyaolu vowed to continue the protest, affirming solidarity with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in their nationwide mass action to combat the hardship inflicted by the ruling elite.
Demanding immediate action, Sanyaolu urged the Tinubu-led government to reverse fuel subsidy removal, halt the floating of the naira, and reject policies imposed by the International Monetary Fund.
The protest garnered support from various civil society organizations, including the Joint Action Front and the Coalition for Revolution, as police officers and the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps closely monitored the demonstrators’ movements.