On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, suspected government-sponsored thugs attacked peaceful protesters in the Maryland area of Lagos, disrupting the ongoing nationwide demonstrations organized by the Take It Back Movement. The attack occurred as police officers reportedly stood by without intervening, according to a video obtained by SaharaReporters.
The protesters were part of the #August5 movement, which has been demonstrating against economic hardship and government policies. The video shows the attackers, some wielding sticks and other objects, confronting the demonstrators while police officers are seen in the background.
The Take It Back Movement, a youth-led coalition, has organized protests across Nigeria, calling for reforms and accountability. The incident in Lagos has raised concerns about the safety of peaceful demonstrators and the role of law enforcement during such gatherings.
As of the latest reports, there have been no official statements from the Lagos State Police Command or the Nigerian government regarding the incident. The organizers have vowed to continue their demonstrations despite the attack.
