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JUST IN: Police Nab leaders of April 7 nationwide protest
A peaceful protest in Abuja turned chaotic on Monday after police fired teargas at demonstrators calling for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act and relief from economic hardship.
The protest, organised by the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society groups, was part of a nationwide action against what participants described as growing authoritarianism under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Ativists, including Bosede Imanah and social critic Flagboy, were among those arrested during the crackdown.
Demonstrators had gathered in the Federal Capital Territory, displaying placards with messages such as “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe” before security operatives attacked, leading to injuries and a chaotic stampede.
It was observed the violent dispersal and reported that several protesters were wounded while trying to flee.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, who was present at the scene, condemned the police action and reiterated support for the protest.
He tweeted, “The ignoble @PoliceNG officers were deployed and they attacked us during today’s #RepealTheCyberCrimeAct protest in Abuja. #EgbetokinMustGo #RevolutionNow”
The Take-It-Back Movement insisted the protest would go on as planned, describing it as a stand against the misuse of the Cybercrime Act, worsening economic hardship, and what they called a “state of emergency” in Rivers State.
The protest is tagged, “Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Suppression of Free Speech.”
Bolaji Adedotun Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, a Nigerian gospel singer, is died.
His family confirmed the unfortunate news in an official statement on Saturday.
Reports indicated that Big Bolaji slumped and died at the age of 50 at an event last night during a concert.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as ‘Big B,’ a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness,” the statement read.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.”
They added, “We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.”
The family also noted that funeral arrangements would be communicated at a later date.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time.
“With gratitude,
“The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju,” the statement added.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider seeking re-election in 2027, claiming it would be politically unwise.
Speaking on News program, Baba-Ahmed said Tinubu should “throw in the towel” if he is truly the savvy politician many believe him to be. He argued that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost credibility, predicting their defeat in the next election.
Mocking Tinubu’s political maneuvers, Baba-Ahmed recounted how he backed various presidential candidates since 2007—culminating, in his words, in an “electoral heist” in 2023.
“If he’s that smart, it’s clear he’s going to lose in 2027,” he said, while suggesting that at least two candidates could defeat the president in the next poll.
He added that Tinubu, like former President Buhari, would fail to deliver on campaign promises. “Buhari didn’t develop Nigeria, didn’t provide security, didn’t fight corruption. Neither will Tinubu,” he asserted.
Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence that Nigerians will rise to reject bad leadership in 2027, uniting to bring genuine democracy to the country.
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