On June 12, 2021, what was traditionally recognized as Nigeria’s Democracy Day transformed into a stage for civic dissent. In Lagos, a large memorial protest was held at Gani Fawehinmi Park in Ojota. The demonstration, primarily led by youths, human rights activists, and members of the #RevolutionNow movement, aimed to highlight the growing dissatisfaction with President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Protesters voiced their anger over widespread insecurity, bad governance, and socio-economic hardship. Tensions flared as police operatives from the Lagos State Police Command responded with force, dispersing the crowds by firing teargas canisters, sparking confrontation between security officials and demonstrators.
June 12, 2024 — ‘Take It Back’ Movement Revives RevolutionNow Spirit Amid National Discontent
By June 12, 2024, discontent had only deepened. The Yele Sowore-led ‘Revolution Now’ campaign returned to the streets under a new theme: ‘Take It Back’. The movement mobilized citizens across the country, demanding far-reaching economic reforms, a crackdown on police brutality, and an end to the persistent wave of kidnappings plaguing the nation. Demonstrations were met with heavy police resistance. In Ibadan, several protesters clad in Revolution Now jackets were arrested. Meanwhile, in other cities, clashes erupted as security forces used teargas to disperse the gatherings, reinforcing the day’s growing symbolism as a moment not just of democratic reflection, but of civic resistance.
June 12, Pre-2021 — Students and Yoruba Nation Agitators Amplify Calls for Action
Even before these larger national movements, June 12 had already begun to take on a tone of resistance. Just hours before the 2021 celebrations, Sunday Asefon, then-President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), declared the day one of protest. Citing the escalating insecurity and its severe toll on Nigerian students, Asefon called for nationwide demonstrations. In parallel, Yoruba Nation agitators and other human rights advocates organized peaceful rallies across the Southwest, urging the Buhari-led administration to urgently address the worsening security situation.
—
This detailed chronology shows how June 12 has evolved from a celebration of Nigeria’s return to democracy into a powerful vehicle for public protest and civic advocacy.
