Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, on Thursday led a Democracy Day protest in Abuja, calling on the Federal Government to address worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges facing the country.

The protest, organised by the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society groups, saw demonstrators gather in parts of Abuja carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs. Protesters demanded improved welfare for Nigerians, greater accountability from public officials, and urgent action to tackle rising insecurity and the rising cost of living.

Security operatives were deployed to monitor the demonstration, which coincided with Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations. The protest remained largely peaceful despite a heavy security presence in parts of the city.

Speaking during the protest, Sowore urged Nigerians to continue demanding transparency, good governance, and democratic accountability from elected leaders. The demonstrators maintained that Democracy Day should serve as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s democratic progress and address the concerns of ordinary citizens.

The protest formed part of a broader nationwide action by activists and civil society organisations who used the June 12 commemoration to highlight concerns over economic hardship, insecurity, and governance in Nigeria.