A coalition consisting of civil society organizations, trade unions, youth groups, community associations, social movements, faith-based organizations, and concerned Nigerians has declared June 12, 2026, a day for nationwide protests and mass action. This decision aims to highlight the worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and deteriorating living conditions in Nigeria, coinciding with Democracy Day celebrations.
The coalition, which includes prominent figures such as Femi Falana (National Chairman of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond), Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Yinka Folarin (National President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights), and various activists and leaders from different organizations, emphasized the lack of reasons for many Nigerians to celebrate Democracy Day. The statement expressed deep concern over the persistent challenges facing citizens, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, inflation, poverty, and rising living costs.
Signatories lamented the loss of lives and the traumatic experiences suffered by innocent Nigerians, condemning the government’s inadequate responses to the ongoing security crises. They called for immediate actions to secure the release of numerous citizens held captive in states like Oyo, Borno, Katsina, Kwara, Ekiti, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger. The coalition asserted that the Nigerian people deserve a government prioritizing the protection of lives and property.
Moreover, the coalition expressed alarm over Nigeria’s dire economic conditions, noting that rising fuel prices, currency devaluation, and increased tariffs have worsened poverty and reduced living standards. Essential services, including food and transportation, have become prohibitively expensive, further straining the capacity of average citizens and small businesses. The statement highlighted that workers’ wages remain inadequate amidst persistent inflation, diminishing household incomes.
The June 12 protests are positioned as part of a series of actions intended to pressure the government into addressing these urgent issues. The coalition urged all sectors—workers, students, traders, artisans, professionals, and religious bodies—to mobilize for the demonstrations. They described the planned protests as a collective struggle for the welfare and security of ordinary Nigerians, calling for unity among civil society organizations and progressive groups to demand the release of captives and improved living conditions.
In conclusion, the coalition asserted the necessity for Nigerians to unite in demanding security, dignity, and a decent standard of living, using strong language to convey that enough is enough regarding killings, kidnappings, hunger, and suffering.
