A broad coalition of civil society organisations, labour unions, youth groups, faith-based bodies and other concerned Nigerians has announced plans to stage a nationwide protest on June 12, 2026, citing worsening insecurity, economic hardship and declining living standards across the country.
The groups said the demonstration will coincide with Nigeria’s Democracy Day and is intended to draw attention to rising challenges such as inflation, poverty, unemployment, and increasing insecurity in several parts of the nation.
In a joint statement signed by prominent activists and civic leaders, the coalition expressed concern that many Nigerians have little reason to celebrate Democracy Day, as communities continue to face terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and other violent crimes.
The statement was endorsed by several well-known figures, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana, activist and musician Falz, and representatives of multiple civil society and labour organisations.
The coalition lamented the continued attacks on communities, noting that farmers are unable to access their farmlands, schools remain vulnerable, and major highways are increasingly unsafe due to criminal activities.
It also raised alarm over the country’s economic situation, describing the current cost of living as unbearable for many citizens amid rising fuel prices, currency depreciation, increased electricity tariffs, and escalating costs of basic goods and services.
According to the group, food inflation and transportation costs have surged significantly, while small and medium-scale businesses are struggling to survive due to high operating expenses and weak consumer purchasing power.
They further argued that stagnant wages and persistent inflation have continued to erode household income, deepening poverty levels across the country.
The coalition called on Nigerians from all walks of life—including workers, students, traders, artisans, youths and religious groups—to mobilise for the planned protest in their communities, campuses and workplaces.
It described the planned action as a collective demand for improved security, better governance and urgent economic relief measures for citizens.
The group also demanded stronger government action to secure the release of individuals currently held captive in various states and to address the broader security crisis affecting the country.
