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The protest, scheduled for April 7, 2025, has been dubbed the "Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Free Speech Suppression." Supporters are urged to gather at the National Assembly in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, with additional locations to be announced in the coming days.
Key Demands: Repeal of the Cybercrime Act and End to Emergency Rule
In an interview with news men on Monday, Juwon Sanyaolu, the National Coordinator of TIB, stressed that one of the movement’s primary demands is the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which he says is being weaponised to stifle free speech.
“The issue revolves around how the Cybercrime Act is being used to suppress dissent. Journalists, activists, and social media users—such as SeaKing and others—have increasingly become targets of this law. This is part of a broader pattern of crackdown on free expression in Nigeria,” Sanyaolu stated.
The movement is also demanding an end to the "emergency rule" in Rivers State, which they allege amounts to "military rule imposed by the government of (President Bola) Tinubu." Protesters are calling for a reversal of this decision and the full reinstatement of all suspended government institutions, including the Rivers State House of Assembly and Executive.
Widespread Discontent Over Governance and Economic Hardship
Beyond the issues in Rivers State, the protest also seeks to highlight broader grievances about governance in Nigeria. Sanyaolu criticised the policies of President Tinubu, stating that they have contributed to increasing economic hardship for Nigerians.
“Most importantly, we are demanding an end to bad governance. The policies implemented by Tinubu have caused considerable hardship for the average Nigerian,” he said during a phone interview.
He also clarified that the protest will not be limited to Abuja, adding that flyers detailing additional protest locations will be released soon.
Targeting of Journalists and Activists
Over the past year, several journalists have faced harassment from state actors for their work. Those affected include:
Segun Olatunji, former editor of First News
Daniel Ojukwu, journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism
Dayo Aiyetan, Executive Director of the International Centre for Investigative Reporting
Nurudeen Akewushola, investigative journalist with The Platform
These cases, according to rights groups, illustrate a growing pattern of repression against independent media and investigative journalism in Nigeria.
Reactions to the Rivers State Crisis and Worsening Economic Conditions
The suspension of the governor and elected representatives in Rivers State has been widely condemned by various stakeholders, who have urged caution and dialogue in resolving the state’s political crisis.
Meanwhile, Nigerians continue to grapple with rising inflation and a skyrocketing cost of living. Protests against economic hardship and insecurity have been gaining momentum in several states, with notable demonstrations in Enugu and Ondo in recent weeks.
As the April 7 protest approaches, all eyes are on how the Nigerian government will respond to growing dissent over governance, press freedom, and human rights in the country.