Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM – nigerian section of IsP)
A coalition of activists drawn from different civil society groups on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest against the commercialisation and gradual takeover of Jabi Lake by private interests, orchestrated by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The protesters assembled at Jabi Lake, where they condemned the increasing restriction of public access to the recreational site, insisting that the lake is a public asset that should remain open and accessible to all residents.
Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the demonstrators accused authorities of allowing the steady privatisation of public space at the expense of ordinary Nigerians.
“This is not democracy,” the protesters declared, arguing that public resources should not be converted into exclusive spaces for the benefit of a few individuals while denying citizens access.
After addressing journalists at Jabi Lake, the coalition marched to the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) headquarters, where they submitted their demands. They called on the authority to immediately halt any process that encourages the commercialisation or privatisation of the lake and restore it fully for public use.
The coalition maintained that Jabi Lake is an important environmental and recreational landmark in the Federal Capital Territory and should be preserved as a public space for leisure, exercise, tourism and community activities.
There have been earlier movement protests, themed #SaveJabiLakePark, that drew a wide range of residents who regularly use the park for fitness, relaxation, and other recreational activities.
As part of efforts to amplify their demands, protesters mounted a giant banner at the site, calling on the Minister and the developers to vacate the park or face mass action.
The protesters also urged the FCDA to ensure transparency in the management of public facilities and to involve residents in decisions affecting public spaces.
The Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) comrades have been part of groups fighting against continue commercialization of public assets for the use of a few to make profits. We will continue to provide support.
