Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has called on Nigerians to participate in a nationwide protest slated for Wednesday, August 5, under the #RevolutionNow movement.
The planned demonstration is expected to take place in different parts of the country, with organisers saying it is intended to draw attention to what they describe as pressing national challenges affecting millions of Nigerians.
Among the issues raised by the organisers are the rising cost of living, worsening insecurity, concerns over governance, and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
The protest movement has also presented a number of demands to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These include an end to insecurity across the country, the immediate release of individuals described as political detainees, and the repeal of Nigeria’s Cybercrime Act.
According to the organisers, the Cybercrime Act has been used in ways that undermine freedom of expression and press freedom. Human rights organisations and civil society groups have previously criticised aspects of the law, arguing that it has sometimes been invoked against journalists, activists, and critics of government policies.
Ahead of the planned protest, there was a noticeable increase in security across parts of the Federal Capital Territory. As of Tuesday, August 4, soldiers and other security personnel had been deployed to strategic locations in Abuja, with security checkpoints and patrols observed in key areas of the city. The heightened presence comes as authorities prepare to maintain law and order during the planned nationwide demonstrations.
Sowore urged Nigerians to participate peacefully in the protest, describing it as a constitutional means for citizens to express their views and demand accountability from public officials.
The planned nationwide action has generated widespread discussions on social media, with supporters describing it as a legitimate civic movement, while others have expressed concerns about possible security challenges and disruptions.
As of the time of this report, there had been no official response from the Federal Government regarding the latest #RevolutionNow protest call.
Security agencies are expected to monitor activities across the country as Nigerians await Wednesday’s planned demonstration.
Source: Sahara Reporters.
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