Suspected thugs on Thursday disrupted a peaceful protest in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
The protest, which was part of the June 12 Democracy Day activities across Nigeria, was held to speak out against rising insecurity and the economic hardship affecting many citizens.
The demonstration started in key areas of the city such as Cathedral Junction, the First Bank area, and the ‘A’ Division axis.
Protesters marched peacefully until the disruption occurred.
Across different cities including Lagos and Abuja, citizens also took to the streets to raise their voices on the same issues.
June 12, now observed as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, marks the return to civilian rule and is often used as a time for Nigerians to express political concerns and demand better governance.
In Akure, however, the protest was cut short when individuals believed to be thugs stormed the venue.
They attacked the protesters and created panic, causing many to flee for safety.
Omoyele Sowore, a political figure who contested in the 2023 presidential election under the African Action Congress (AAC), led the protest in Ondo.
He claimed that the group had officially informed the police about their plans and expected protection, but the police did not act as expected.
He also alleged that the attackers were sent to scatter the gathering.
A human rights lawyer, Tope Temokun, also witnessed the event and shared his concern over the incident.
He noted that it was wrong for any group to be attacked while peacefully expressing their views in a democratic country. He said such actions show how difficult it is for Nigerians to freely gather and speak their minds without fear.
Despite the attack, the protesters said their message has been delivered, calling attention to the urgent need for safety, food, jobs, and better leadership.
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