Falana, Falz, Civil Society Groups Mobilise Nigerians For June 12 Protest

A broad coalition of civil society organisations, labour unions, youth groups, community associations and prominent activists has declared June 12, Nigeria's Democracy Day, a day of nationwide protest against worsening insecurity, economic hardship and declining living standards.

The coalition, led by renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), announced the planned demonstrations on Wednesday, accusing the Federal Government of failing to adequately address the security and economic challenges confronting millions of Nigerians.

Among those backing the protest are activist-musician Falz, leaders of the #EndBadGovernance Movement, labour advocates, socialist organisations and several civil society groups across the country.

According to the coalition, Democracy Day should not merely be a symbolic celebration but also an opportunity for citizens to demand accountability from government.

The organisers argued that many Nigerians currently have little reason to celebrate as communities across the country continue to battle terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and violent attacks.

They lamented that countless citizens have been killed, abducted or displaced, while insecurity continues to spread across several states.

The coalition expressed solidarity with victims of terrorism and kidnapping and called for urgent government action to secure the release of those still being held captive in parts of Oyo, Borno, Katsina, Kwara, Ekiti, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger states.

"The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government," the group stated.

Beyond security concerns, the coalition blamed worsening economic conditions on policies implemented by President Bola Tinubu's administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy, repeated increases in fuel prices, electricity tariff hikes and the devaluation of the naira.

According to the organisers, these policies have contributed significantly to soaring food prices, rising transportation costs, shrinking purchasing power and the closure of many small and medium-scale businesses.

They argued that despite increased government revenues and higher allocations to federal, state and local governments, ordinary Nigerians continue to struggle under severe economic pressure.

The coalition said workers' wages have remained largely inadequate in the face of persistent inflation and escalating living costs.

Organisers described the June 12 protest as the first phase of a broader campaign aimed at compelling government to address insecurity and implement policies that improve citizens' welfare.

They called on workers, students, traders, artisans, market women, professionals, unemployed youths, religious organisations and community groups to join the demonstrations.

"The time has come for Nigerians to speak with one voice and demand security, dignity and a decent standard of living," the coalition declared.

"Enough of the killings. Enough of the kidnappings. Enough of the hunger. Enough of the suffering."