Report from Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM – IsP section in Nigeria) about the June 12 national day of resistance against insecurity, kidnapping and economic hardship
The Revolutionary Socialist Movement (RSM) participated in the June 12 protests held across Nigeria, particularly in Abuja and Lagos, where citizens took to the streets to express their frustration over the worsening insecurity, kidnapping, hunger and economic hardship.
The protest witnessed participation from workers, students, youths, civil society organisations and concerned citizens who condemned the government’s inability to effectively tackle the challenges confronting the country.
In Abuja, activists led by Omoyele Sowore and other democratic campaigners gathered peacefully at the Berger Roundabout. The protest moved from there through Berger to Wuse to the Federal Secretariat. However, without a provocation, security operatives responded by firing tear gas canisters at the protesters in an attempt to disperse the peaceful gathering and also to stop them from advancing to president Tinubu’s residence entrance.
Despite the intimidation, protesters remained resolute and continued to express their demands. The deployment of tear gas against peaceful demonstrators further exposed the intolerance of the Tinubu regime towards expressions of dissent.
An encouraging feature of the protests was the level of public sympathy and support received from ordinary people. Across different locations, many onlookers openly expressed solidarity with the protesters, while others joined the demonstrations.
The Revolutionary Socialist Movement notes that the widespread support for the protests reflects the growing anger among Nigerians. The participation of citizens from diverse backgrounds demonstrates a collective desire for fundamental change.
In Lagos, prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, joined hundreds of protesters, as well as his son, activist and musician, Falz. During the protest, some sponsored political thugs and counter-protesters made attempts to attack protesters.
RSM reiterates its commitment to the struggle for a democratic, secure and socialist Nigeria. We call on workers, youths, students and community organisations to continue building mass resistance against policies that deepen poverty while demanding adequate security, jobs, quality education, healthcare and a living wage for all.
We call on all working people to get organised in order to fight this thuggish regime.
