Protest Begins in Abuja Over Cybercrime Act, Economic Hardship, and Other Issues
A nationwide protest led by the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) and several civil society organisations has begun in Abuja. The demonstration, which started on Monday, April 7, 2025, aims to draw attention to the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act, the worsening economic hardship in the country, and what organisers have described as a “state of emergency” in Rivers State.
Protesters gathered in the nation’s capital, wielding placards with inscriptions such as “Stop the Repression,” “Let Us Breathe,” and “We Demand Justice,” among others. The rally is seen as a response to the increasing authoritarianism of the government, with the protesters calling for urgent reforms to address pressing issues affecting citizens.
Focus of the Protest
At the core of the protest is the Cybercrime Act, which many Nigerians have accused the government of using to silence dissent and stifle free speech. The protesters argue that the law, which was initially intended to combat cybercrime, is now being misused to target activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens expressing their dissatisfaction with the state of the country.
Another significant concern raised by the protesters is the worsening economic hardship. Inflation, unemployment, and increasing poverty have made it increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to meet their basic needs. In the statement issued by TIB’s National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, he described the situation as “unsustainable.” He stated, “The current economic hardship has reached unbearable levels, and the government must take responsibility and find meaningful solutions for the people. We cannot continue to suffer while the government turns a blind eye.”
Additionally, the organisers have drawn attention to what they believe is a growing crisis in Rivers State. They have described the state’s current situation as a “state of emergency,” citing alleged political repression and claims of human rights abuses.
Key Figures in the Protest
Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore was spotted at the protest grounds, offering his support for the cause. Sowore, a vocal critic of the Nigerian government, has previously led several protests, including the #RevolutionNow movement, which called for systemic changes in the government’s approach to governance and the economy.
“Enough is enough! The Nigerian people deserve better than the continuous repression and poverty that have become the hallmarks of this administration. We are here to show the government that we will no longer remain silent in the face of these injustices,” Sowore told The PUNCH while addressing the protesters.
The Call for Reform
The protesters are calling for a range of reforms, including:
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Immediate review and amendment of the Cybercrime Act to prevent its misuse against freedom of speech.
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Economic relief for Nigerians, particularly the working class, to alleviate the burden of inflation and skyrocketing living costs.
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Political reform in Rivers State, with the demand that the government addresses alleged human rights violations and political repression in the region.
The protest is not just focused on one issue but is a broader call for systemic change in Nigeria, highlighting the many concerns that have led to widespread discontent among Nigerians.
Continued Struggle and Future Actions
While the demonstration is still ongoing, organisers have promised to escalate their actions if their demands are not met. They have threatened further protests and other forms of civil disobedience, including strikes, if the government does not take immediate action to address the issues at hand.
“We will not back down. This protest is just the beginning of a nationwide movement. If the government refuses to listen to us, we will intensify our struggle,” said Sanyaolu.
As the protest continues to unfold, the eyes of the nation remain on the protesters’ demands and how the government will respond. With Omoyele Sowore and other activists lending their voices to the cause, the movement has garnered significant attention, both within Nigeria and internationally.
The protest in Abuja is not just a demonstration against specific policies but a call for a more just and accountable government that will prioritize the welfare of its citizens above all else.