September 29, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
Despite potential security concerns, organizers of the #FearlessOctober1 protest have vowed to proceed with their planned demonstration at Eagle Square on October 1, Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.
The organizers vow to have a peaceful protest at the same venue Nigeria’s Independence Day will take place.
“Nobody has expressed to us or anyone that they’re afraid because they know we are not violent protesters; maybe you should ask that of the government,” Omoyele Sowore said.
Lawyer to the organisers, Deji Adeyanju, said it was wrong for the police to summon protesters who were exercising their right.
“The police do not have the right to summon protesters like they are currently doing. It is the responsibility of the police to protect the protesters anytime they embark on a demonstration. The protesters are not political parties; security agencies should not harass them,” he stated.
“The government plans to discourage people from coming out to protest; that is why they are still detaining our comrades who participated in the August protest. But that will not dampen the morale of the youths on the #FearlessOctober protest.” Adeyanju added.