SUNTV Global Channel Reporting | June 12, 2026
A peaceful Democracy Day protest at the Ikeja Under Bridge in Lagos was disrupted on Thursday after demonstrators accused a group allegedly linked to the ruling APC, operating under the name “Team Nigeria,” of attempting to hijack and destabilize the gathering.
According to eyewitness accounts, the group arrived at the protest venue with a vehicle equipped with powerful loudspeakers, creating noise that protesters said drowned out their messages and speeches. Demonstrators also alleged that some members of the group acted aggressively toward activists, journalists, and participants at the event.
One protester claimed he was physically assaulted during the confrontation, alleging that he was struck in the chest before fellow demonstrators and security personnel intervened. Protesters further alleged that the group demanded they vacate the venue, a request they refused.
The Democracy Day rally attracted several prominent civil society figures, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), activist-lawyer Funmi Falana, popular rapper and activist Falz, as well as members of the Take It Back Movement and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR).
Participants used the occasion to highlight concerns over insecurity, kidnapping, economic hardship, and governance challenges facing Nigerians. Placards bearing messages such as “No Democracy Without Security” and “End Insecurity and Kidnapping” were displayed throughout the demonstration.
Speaking at the rally, Falz reaffirmed his commitment to democratic participation and civic engagement, stressing the importance of citizens exercising their democratic rights.
As of the time of this report, neither the Lagos State chapter of the APC nor the police authorities had issued an official statement regarding the allegations made by protesters.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns about the protection of peaceful protesters, journalists, and civic activists during public demonstrations in Nigeria.
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