The protest against insecurity led by Martin Otse, social media activist and influencer known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has continued to generate interest among young persons.

The protest, which is against widespread insecurity across the country, attracted hundreds of supporters, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, featured placards bearing messages such as “End Insecurity Now,” “Protect Nigerian Lives,” and “Security Is a Right, Not a Privilege.”

Protesters marched through designated routes in the nation’s capital city while urging authorities to strengthen efforts against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other violent crimes affecting communities across the country.

When the protesters got to a spot manned by armed security operatives, VDM, who recently returned from China, said, “You have bullets to shoot us? You have bullets to shoot kidnappers? Carry your airplane and bomb them!”

“They keep raping our women, killing us and beheading citizens!”, to which the the crowd roared, “Shame!”.

Later while addressing the crowd, VDM said the protest was not politically motivated but aimed at drawing attention to the plight of ordinary Nigerians who continue to face insecurity in many parts of the country.

He called on the federal and state governments to prioritize the safety of citizens and improve intelligence gathering and law enforcement.

“We are here because Nigerians deserve to live without fear. Every day, families are losing loved ones, businesses are shutting down, and communities are being displaced. The government must act decisively,” he said.

Participants also appealed for better support for security agencies, improved welfare for personnel, and stronger collaboration between government institutions and local communities to tackle criminal activities.

Security personnel monitored the protest to maintain law and order, while traffic was temporarily diverted in some areas to accommodate the procession. No major incidents were reported during the demonstration.

Last week, security was beefed up around the Presidential Villa, Abuja, after some human rights activists made known their intention to protest.

President Bola Tinubu has blamed the widespread insecurity on his enemies whom he said were planning to take him out.

President Bola Tinubu has described himself as a “very stubborn politician” whom his enemies tried to get rid off through insecurity.

While hosting a high-powered delegation from Plateau State late April, Tinubu had said he had remained resolute despite criticism over insecurity.

“You are playing to the hand of agents, including my own enemies, who want to use insecurity to get rid of me. But I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term,” he had said.

Recently, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, who is one of the staunch supporters of the president, had said, “There is no vacancy in Aso Rock even if you kidnap all of us”.

He said this at a campaign rally in Edo North Senatorial District.

Okpebholo alleged that insecurity is being used as a weapon to distract Tinubu.

However, the protesters have called for urgent government action to address the worsening security situation.

The protest comes amid growing public concern over incidents of kidnapping, armed attacks, and other security challenges in different parts of the country. (Daily Trust)

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