A nationwide June 12 protest has been announced by a coalition of civil society organisations, labour groups, youth movements, community associations, and faith-based organisations concerned about worsening insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria. The planned action coincides with Democracy Day celebrations and aims to draw attention to growing challenges affecting citizens across the country.
The coalition said millions of Nigerians have little reason to celebrate democratic progress while many communities continue to face terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, poverty, and rising living costs. Organisers described the demonstration as a peaceful effort to demand urgent action from authorities.
The announcement was contained in a joint statement signed by several activists and civil society leaders. Signatories include National Chairman of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), Femi Falana; organising committee member of the #EndBadGovernance Movement, Hassan Taiwo Soweto; National President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Yinka Folarin; and Organising Secretary of the Nigeria Patriotic Front Movement, Yusha’u Sani Yankuzo.
Other signatories include musician and activist Falz, Executive Director of the Moses Oisakede Leadership Foundation Mike Igaga, President of PERESSA Rufus Olusesan, Segun Oladunni of the Joint Action Front, and General Secretary of Socialist Labour Abiodun Olamosu.
According to the coalition, insecurity remains one of the most pressing concerns facing the nation. The group noted that innocent Nigerians continue to be killed, abducted, displaced, and traumatised despite repeated assurances from government authorities.
The coalition expressed solidarity with victims and families affected by terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. It also called for immediate efforts to secure the release of citizens reportedly being held captive in states including Oyo, Borno, Katsina, Kwara, Ekiti, Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger.
“The Nigerian people deserve a government that places the protection of lives and property at the centre of governance,” the coalition stated.
Beyond security concerns, organisers of the June 12 protest highlighted the economic difficulties confronting households and businesses. They argued that rising fuel prices, currency devaluation, increased electricity tariffs, and the growing cost of essential services have worsened poverty and reduced living standards.
The coalition also pointed to rising food prices and transportation costs, which continue to strain household budgets. Small and medium-sized enterprises were identified as particularly vulnerable due to high operating expenses, unstable power supply, and declining consumer purchasing power.
Workers have also been affected, the statement noted, as inflation continues to erode the value of wages and household incomes. According to the coalition, many Nigerians now struggle to meet basic needs despite being employed.
Organisers said the June 12 protest forms part of broader efforts to pressure government institutions into implementing policies that improve security and ease economic hardship. They called on workers, students, traders, artisans, market women, professionals, unemployed youths, religious organisations, and trade unions to participate.
“The time has come for Nigerians to speak with one voice and demand security, dignity and a decent standard of living. Enough of the killings. Enough of the kidnappings. Enough of the hunger. Enough of the suffering,” the statement added.
For many observers, the planned demonstration reflects growing public concern over security and economic conditions. The coalition hopes the action will amplify citizen demands for safer communities and improved living standards across Nigeria.
