The Take It Back Movement has called on Nigerians to join nationwide protests on 5 August, demanding radical action to combat soaring inflation, rampant insecurity, and political repression.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Juwon Sanyaolu, it urged citizens to participate in the “Festival of the Oppressed” to voice anger over the country’s worsening socio-economic state under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“The Festival of the Oppressed is more than a protest. It is a gathering of workers, students, artists, journalists, professionals, market traders, farmers and every Nigerian whose voice has been ignored by those in power,” the group stated.
The movement warned that living conditions have deteriorated sharply following the 2023 fuel subsidy removal and naira devaluation, leaving millions unable to afford basic food or transport.
It also condemned widespread attacks by armed groups across states including Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, and Benue, while accusing authorities of using the Cybercrime Act to silence activists and journalists.
“Nigeria is bleeding. Across every region of the country, ordinary people are paying the price for the failures of those in power,” the statement read, adding that “families are left to negotiate ransoms for their loved ones while government officials continue to make empty promises.”
“The laws have become tools for silencing dissent and criminalising criticism of those in power,” the group added.
Key demands include a ₦500,000 minimum wage, the release of political detainees, the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, the dismissal of top government and security officials, and protection for Nigerians facing xenophobia in South Africa.
“History has repeatedly shown that no government willingly surrenders privilege without sustained democratic pressure from the people. The future of Nigeria cannot be left in the hands of a political class that continues to profit while millions sink deeper into hardship.”
Urging peaceful turnout, the movement concluded: “We therefore call on Nigerians everywhere to peacefully mobilise, organise and participate in the August 5 Festival of the Oppressed. Let every community become a centre of democratic resistance. Let every oppressed Nigerian understand that they are not alone. Our demands are just. Our rights are non-negotiable. Our future must be reclaimed. Enough is enough.”