#June12thProtest: Protesters In Osun, Ondo Demand End To Insecurity, Poor Governance

Scores of protesters in Osun State, Southwest Nigeria joined the Democracy Day protest at Oke-Fia roundabout, Osogbo on Saturday, June 12, 2021 despite  heavy presence of security personnel. 

The demonstrators under the aegis of Coalition of Civil Society (CSOs), called for an end to insecurity, bad governance, kidnappings, and violation of human rights.

The protesters were seen with posters and placards, with inscriptions such as “Buhari must Go,” “Buhari should resign if he is tired,” “Power belongs to the People,” “Save Nigeria from sinking,” “Bring back our economy,” “Bring back our Twitter,” among others.

It was reported that there was a heavy security presence in Osogbo, the state’s capital as patrol vehicles of security agencies were stationed at major junctions.

Security presence was also observed at the State Secretariat, Ola-Iya, Aregbe, Oke-Fia, and Old Garage. Military and police were on patrol around the state capital.

Olawale Olokode, the state’s Commissioner of Police was reported to have asked parents to warn their children against participating in the protest.

“I therefore advise parents and guardians to warn their wards against any unnecessary protest and procession in the state that could cause breakdown of law and order, as the Command will not tolerate any act of lawlessness,” Olokode said.

Ondo State joins protest 

Like other Southwest states, protesters in Ondo State also took to the streets to campaign for good governance in the country. 

The youths converged at the Post Office Junction axis in the state capital, Akure, chanting “Buhari must go.”

Also, security operatives were on ground to monitor the protest. Most of the streets in Ondo State were deserted as vehicles did not move on the major roads of the state capital.

Youths react

Speaking with HumAngle on the protest, Olajide Olaogun, a youth, said he was out to exercise his civil rights despite being warned by his parents. 

“I didn’t plan to come out because my parents never stopped calling to warn me against joining a protest. I was motivated because I had a conversation last night with my group and I advocated for change so I felt I must be part of the movement for a change. I would be a coward if I stayed back at home,” he said.

“I have received numerous calls from my parents and relatives, warning me not to come out today. I’m in my bed right now to avoid problems,” said Okikiola, a resident in Ibadan.

Also, some youths who spoke with HumAngle expressed fear of repression by security forces, or infiltration by hoodlums.

HumAngle  reported how  a coalition of civil rights groups threatened to challenge the Nigerian government to international court if it used brute force on peaceful protesters.

A warning by the Nigerian government, urging citizens to desist from protesting had promoted the counter warning by the civic groups.