Thugs disrupt peaceful June 12 Protest in Akure

Some armed thugs attacked peaceful protesters in Akure the  Ondo  capital on Thursday.

The protesters were part of the #TakeItBack movement and were speaking out against economic hardship and unemployment in Nigeria.

The protest took place at Cathedral Junction and was led by activist Omoyele Sowore and lawyer Tope Temokun. According to Sowore, the thugs arrived with weapons, attacked the group, and forced many to run away.

Sowore said the attackers were sent by members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

He also said that police officers who were supposed to protect the protesters stood by and did nothing during the attack.

“This is a shame, especially on a day like June 12, when we remember our fight for democracy,” Sowore said.

“We were peacefully protesting against hunger and hardship, but they sent thugs to stop us. We won’t give up. Every Nigerian has the right to speak up.”

He also said that people are tired of the current government under President Bola Tinubu and will keep protesting until things get better.

Lawyer Tope Temokun said they had informed the police about the protest in advance to make sure it would be safe.

The state police commissioner, Wilfred Afolabi, praised the protesters for staying peaceful. He denied that the police helped the thugs and promised to investigate the attack.

“We sent officers early to prevent any trouble in places like Akure, Owo, Ikare, and Ore,” Afolabi said. “I have asked for proof of the attack and have started an investigation.