Health workers under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professional Associations are currently staging a protest at the Unity Fountain in Abuja over a proposed health sector reform bill before the National Assembly.

The demonstrators voiced strong opposition to the legislation, warning that it could significantly restructure the regulatory framework of Nigeria’s health sector.

Concerns over centralised control

According to the protesters, the bill seeks to place all medical professions under the authority of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.

They argue that such a move would undermine existing professional councils and disrupt the balance within the healthcare system.

Health workers insist that each profession already operates under its own regulatory body and caution that the proposed reform could weaken institutional independence.

Fear of professional imbalance

The unions further warned that the legislation could relegate non-physician healthcare workers to a subordinate status.

Some protesters described the proposal as an attempt to make other health professionals “second-class” compared to medical doctors.

They stressed that the bill, if passed, could create structural inequality and affect collaboration across the sector.

Planned escalation to National Assembly

The protesters said they plan to proceed to the National Assembly Complex to formally present their grievances and demand a reconsideration of the bill.

The protest follows earlier announcements by the unions to mobilise healthcare professionals nationwide against the proposed Health Sector Executive Bills 2026.

Participants from across the country are expected to join the demonstration, which began at Unity Fountain in Maitama.

What happens next

Stakeholders say the outcome of the protest could shape ongoing legislative deliberations, as lawmakers face mounting pressure to review the bill.

The development highlights growing tensions within Nigeria’s health sector over regulatory control and professional autonomy.

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A national industrial court in Abuja has restrained the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) from carrying out a planned protest in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), pending the resolution of an ongoing dispute with the Federal Capital Territory Authority (FCTA).

The ruling was delivered by Judge Emmanuel Subilim following an ex parte application filed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, alongside the FCTA. The court’s decision specifically applies to NLC and TUC leaders, including Benson Upah and Nuhu Toro, as well as law enforcement agencies tasked with maintaining order.

According to the court, the action was necessary to prevent potential disruptions to law and order, obstruction of vehicular traffic, and violations of the rights of residents, expatriates, and tourists within Abuja.

The legal move comes after the FCTA workers began an indefinite strike on January 19, 2026, citing unresolved labour and welfare demands. The strike led to a shutdown of secretariats, departments, and agencies across the territory, prompting the minister to approach the court to restrain further industrial action.

The court highlighted that while workers have the right to industrial action, this right is not absolute. Once a trade dispute is referred to the national industrial court, any ongoing strike must cease pending determination.

Despite earlier instructions from the head of civil service directing all FCTA employees to resume duties immediately, the NLC had called for continued strike action, prompting judicial intervention.

Counsel to the FCT Minister, Ogwu Onoja, emphasized that the planned protest would contravene a valid court order and could further jeopardize public safety and essential services in the capital.

The court’s decision is expected to maintain industrial peace in Abuja while the national industrial court proceeds to hear and determine the underlying labour dispute.

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Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command fired teargas at residents who staged a protest on Wednesday at the Lagos State House of Assembly over ongoing demolition exercises across several communities, including Makoko, Owode Onirin, Oworonshoki, Otumara, and Baba-Ijora.

The residents gathered to express opposition to the demolitions, which they claimed were carried out without adequate consultation, proper compensation, or resettlement plans.

The demonstration began at the Ikeja under-bridge and proceeded to the assembly complex, where the protesters carried banners and placards with messages such as “Justice for Ago Egun,” “Governor Sanwo-Olu, Save Ajegunle People from Oba Ojora,” “Justice for Owode Onirin Traders,” and “Halt the Demolitions, It is Illegal.” Their aim was to demand justice and fair treatment for those affected by the ongoing government-led demolition activities.

Upon reaching the assembly complex, police officers had barricaded the entrance with vehicles, preventing the protesters from entering. The authorities cited security concerns, noting that allowing unrestricted access could lead to the demonstration being hijacked by hoodlums. The Commissioner of Police, Moshood Jimoh, who was present at the scene, stated that the police would not permit entry into the assembly to maintain order and protect both the protesters and the premises.

The protesters insisted on gaining access to the designated podium at the assembly complex, highlighting that similar protests, such as the December 17, 2025, demonstration led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over rising insecurity, had been permitted by the police. Activist Hassan Soweto reminded the police commissioner of this precedent, arguing for equitable treatment of all peaceful protests regardless of the cause.

In response to the protesters’ persistence, three members of the Lagos State House of Assembly came out to address the crowd. However, the gesture failed to satisfy the demonstrators, who booed the lawmakers and demanded permission to enter the complex. The tension escalated as disagreements between the protesters and the lawmakers intensified, eventually leading to the departure of the assembly members under a chorus of boos from the demonstrators.

Shortly after the departure of the lawmakers, police officers deployed teargas canisters to disperse the crowd. Several demonstrators were reportedly affected, while a number of participants were arrested. Journalists covering the protest were also caught in the teargas, highlighting the challenges faced by media personnel in volatile public demonstrations.

The protest underscores the rising tensions between residents and government authorities over urban redevelopment initiatives in Lagos. Many communities affected by the demolitions have long raised concerns about the lack of adequate resettlement options, insufficient compensation for lost property, and limited engagement with affected residents before carrying out such actions. Civil society groups and activists have consistently argued that demolitions without community involvement risk creating social unrest and deepening mistrust between citizens and the state.

Local analysts note that while the government cites the need to enforce urban planning regulations and eliminate illegal structures, the approach to implementation has often been criticized for being heavy-handed. Reports indicate that affected areas, such as Makoko and Ajegunle, are home to low-income populations, many of whom rely on informal settlements for their livelihoods. The removal of such structures without comprehensive resettlement plans exacerbates socio-economic vulnerabilities and fuels grievances among residents.

This incident also highlights the recurring challenge of balancing urban development, regulatory enforcement, and human rights considerations. Policymakers face the complex task of upgrading infrastructure and ensuring orderly city planning while also protecting the welfare of vulnerable communities. The teargas deployment and subsequent arrests have sparked renewed debate about the appropriate use of force in managing protests, with calls for improved dialogue and negotiation mechanisms between authorities and affected residents.

As Lagos continues its push for urban modernization and environmental management, the government is expected to provide clarity on compensation frameworks and resettlement options. Observers emphasize that sustainable urban development requires transparent processes, active engagement with communities, and the protection of fundamental rights.

The protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly serves as a reminder of the growing frustration among residents affected by demolition operations. It also underscores the broader need for governments to adopt inclusive and humane strategies when implementing urban policies, particularly in cities experiencing rapid population growth and infrastructural pressures.

Moving forward, stakeholders—including government agencies, civil society groups, and community leaders—are urged to collaborate to ensure that development initiatives are equitable, transparent, and respectful of citizens’ rights. Without such engagement, similar protests and confrontations are likely to persist, threatening public trust and social cohesion in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

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Dozens of aggrieved citizens on Thursday stormed the Federal Ministry of Works in Abuja, demanding immediate and fair compensation for properties demolished along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project corridor.

Chanting slogans and holding placards that read messages like “Ministry of Works is complicit in abrupt road diversion” and “International investors deserve protection, not demolition,” the protesters voiced strong discontent over what they described as the government’s insensitivity to property owners affected by the highway construction.

Speaking on behalf of the demonstrators, one of the group leaders emphasized the urgency of justice and accountability.

“We are here with others who believe in fairness and equity. You don’t take people’s legally acquired properties—properties with valid Certificates of Occupancy—without proper compensation and expect silence. What we want is justice. When do we want it? Now,” he declared.

He criticized the manner in which the government handled the road diversion, saying it had left many Nigerians devastated after investing in properties that were suddenly demolished without prior warning or adequate redress.

“We support infrastructure development, but it must not come at the cost of people’s livelihoods. You cannot invite citizens and Nigerians in the diaspora to invest in their homeland, only to destroy what they’ve built without restitution. It sends the wrong message and discourages further investment,” he added.

The protesters also raised concerns about the whereabouts of a young Nigerian, Obanla, reportedly detained during the demolition exercise. His continued disappearance, according to them, raises human rights concerns.

“Obanla was taken from the site, and till now, we don’t know where he is. We are calling for his immediate release. Enough is enough,” the speaker insisted.

Calling on the National Assembly to intervene, the demonstrators urged lawmakers to hold the Works Ministry accountable. They argued that just as the nation found the means to reward athletes for excellence, it must also compensate citizens whose properties have been unjustly taken.

“If we have millions to reward the Super Falcons, we should have the same resources to compensate those whose homes and investments were destroyed. These people worked hard for what they owned,” he said.

As at the time of the protest, officials of the ministry were unavailable to respond to the demands, with reports indicating that the minister was out of town.

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The demonstrators, primarily youths from affected villages, voiced deep frustration over the growing spate of kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks by suspected criminal groups. Chanting slogans and calling for urgent intervention, they decried what they described as years of abandonment by both local authorities and traditional leaders.

“We are no longer safe. People are being kidnapped almost every day, and we live in fear. No one is coming to our aid—not the governor, not the chairman, not even the Emir,” a protester said.

The protest followed a series of abductions in recent days that have left residents terrified. Local sources reported that three people, including a popular Point of Sale (POS) operator identified as “Yman,” were abducted in two separate incidents between Sunday night and Monday morning. Yman was reportedly taken from Lafiagi town, while two other victims were kidnapped during a violent raid on Kokodo village. A young girl reportedly escaped the attackers by fleeing into the bush.

The unrest intensified after the abduction of a well-known agro-chemical trader, Alhaji Chemical, who was seized from his residence around 1 a.m. on Sunday. Witnesses said the kidnappers, armed with sophisticated weapons, arrived on motorcycles and overpowered the local vigilante group before fleeing with their victim.

“This protest didn’t happen overnight,” said another resident. “We’ve endured repeated attacks and kidnappings. The government has ignored us, and people have reached their breaking point.”

The protests, which turned violent, saw protesters break windows and damage property at the Emir’s palace while demanding accountability from traditional and political leaders. The burning of the NDLEA office was seen as a symbolic expression of frustration over perceived state inaction.

As of press time, security personnel had been deployed to restore order in the community. However, there has been no official response from the Kwara State Government or the Emir of Lafiagi regarding the demonstrations or the ongoing security crisis. Concerns continue to mount across Kwara North, with calls for sustained government intervention to address insecurity in the region.

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Residents of Ajah in Lagos State have raised alarm over the planned imposition of a new traditional leader in their community.

In a peaceful protest held at the Governor’s Office in Alausa on Monday morning, they called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene and prevent potential communal conflict.

This marks the second protest in two weeks, following a similar demonstration at the Lagos State House of Assembly on November 28.

Speaking at the protest, the General Secretary of the Ajah Community, Kazeem Odunlami, stated that the residents urgently require the governor’s attention to halt the imposition.

He said, “We are here to let the governor know about the planned imposition of a traditional ruler in the Ajah community. Lagos is known for its adherence to the rule of law, and we believe the governor will uphold this standard to ensure peace and fairness.”

Odunlami emphasized that for over 300 years, the Baale of Ajah has been the traditional leader, a custom deeply rooted in the community’s culture and history. He warned that any attempt to impose an external leader would violate their traditions and risk igniting conflict.

The protesters also stressed the importance of maintaining peace in the community, appealing to Governor Sanwo-Olu to act swiftly. Odunlami noted that the chieftaincy title linked to the proposed leader is unrelated to the rulership of Ajah, reaffirming that only the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah is recognized under their customs.

Addressing the protesters, Ayodeji Haruna, the Director of the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement in Lagos State, commended the peaceful nature of the demonstration.

“I assure you that your concerns will be presented to the governor, and the matter will be addressed promptly. Your approach to seeking resolution through peaceful means is commendable,” Haruna said.

The residents of Ajah remain hopeful that the Lagos State Government will intervene to preserve the community’s traditions and ensure lasting peace.

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Led by Abdullahi Bilal of the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal alongside Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac from Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN), demonstrators voiced discontent with what they described as failed leadership in managing Nigeria’s oil sector.

At the heart of the protest were grievances over surging fuel prices and long queues at filling stations, which protesters said have driven inflation to unprecedented levels, exacerbating poverty across the country. They condemned the current fuel subsidy, arguing it has only enriched a select few while leaving the majority of Nigerians struggling with rising costs.

Protesters called for full deregulation of the oil sector to foster transparency, competition, and fairer pricing. They also decried the continued importation of substandard fuel, which they claimed damages vehicles and disrupts businesses.

The demonstrators demanded an immediate end to these imports and accountability for those responsible, questioning how adulterated fuel still enters the country despite quality control measures.

Criticism was also directed at the Dangote Refinery, which had been touted as a solution to Nigeria’s fuel crisis. Protesters expressed frustration over the billions of dollars invested in the refinery and other facilities, noting that the nation remains heavily reliant on costly fuel imports, despite its status as an oil producer.

Citing economic impacts, protesters highlighted inflation rates surpassing 24% and a 200% increase in fuel prices, both of which have deepened poverty and strained household budgets. They called on President Bola Tinubu to overhaul leadership within the oil sector, enforce stricter accountability measures, and prioritize citizens’ welfare.

Abdullahi Bilal, speaking to journalists during the demonstration, emphasized the significance of the movement. “The Two Million Man March stands as a voice for every Nigerian betrayed by a system that enriches the few at the expense of the many. We demand immediate resignation of the current oil sector leadership, who have failed the people,” he stated.

He continued, “Fuel prices have soared with no regard for the devastating impact on ordinary Nigerians. Scarcity persists, and substandard fuel imports further add to the hardship. We call for full deregulation, transparency, and an end to harmful practices that undermine our livelihoods.”

Barrister Napoleon Otache and Olayemi Isaac also spoke passionately, condemning what they described as “economic sabotage” that has led to unending fuel queues, inflated prices, and significant disruptions to daily life. They demanded transparency from all stakeholders in the oil industry and called for an end to practices that perpetuate Nigeria’s dependency on imports.

The protesters vowed to continue their mobilization efforts until their demands for reform, accountability, and sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s fuel crisis are met.

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City & Crime reports that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had directed officials of the administration to carry out what he called a total sanitation of the nation’s capital.

He had earlier given beggars in particular up to last Sunday to vacate Abuja streets or risk arrest.

City & Crime reports that the clamp down on the beggars, scavengers and others started on Monday in the operation that the officials said would last for two weeks.

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But reacting to the exercise yesterday, some beggars, particularly those with disabilities, protested the clampdown, voicing their concerns during a visit to the head office of Media Trust Group, publishers of the Trust Newspaper titles, Trust TV, and Trust Radio.

They came under the umbrella of Arewa Freedom of the Blind Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Abuja chapter.

Auwal I. Alhassan, who spoke on their behalf, criticised the FCTA for not engaging with them or addressing their grievances prior to the eviction order.

He stated, “If you want to remove someone from the street, you should communicate your intentions clearly, especially to those of us with disabilities. Some of us had jobs before, but it was the same government that laid us off. Now, they are flushing us out without providing proper shelter. Are we not Nigerians? We have equal rights to life.”

He further noted that aside from the SERAP, no NGOs, civil society organisations, or religious groups had come to their aid.

Alhassan claimed that those arrested were living in deplorable conditions at the FCT Rehabilitation Centre in Bwari, lacking food, water, and medical care.

“They chased us as if we were chickens. Over 200 of our members have been arrested and locked up at the rehabilitation centre. We have a constitutional right to live freely anywhere we choose.

“Many of us are graduates and NCE holders, yet the government fails to provide us with jobs, treating us as if we are expendable. Meanwhile, bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers operate with impunity. It’s alarming that the enforcement team included military personnel who should be combating the real insecurity plaguing our country,” he said.

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According to a report by City News Toronto, approximately 70,000 foreign students participated in nationwide protests, with demonstrations occurring across provinces including Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.

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Led by the estate executives, the residents demanded accountability and transparency from the estate developer and manager in determining annual service charges. They also called for the discontinuation of bulk metering, which they claimed caused frequent power supply disconnections in the estate.

During the peaceful protest, residents expressed concerns over high service and maintenance charges and the frequent disconnection of power supply due to the use of a single bulk meter for the entire estate.

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The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) had previously agreed to eliminate bulk billing for residential customers and replace it with individual metering and billing, following numerous complaints of indiscriminate billing by Nigerians.

Anthony Ogbebor, the estate chairman, stated that despite NERC’s agreement to eliminate bulk billing, the practice had not ceased. Instead, it had evolved into a more expensive and upgraded format, causing frequent power disconnections and increased charges.

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“We want our demands to be met. Since the agreement by NERC to eliminate bulk billing for residential customers and replace it with individual metering and billing, the practice has not stopped. Instead, it only experiences a more rebranded and constantly upgraded format of exorbitant charges, including constant disconnection of the power supply,” Ogbebor said.

Another resident, identified simply as Wigle, criticized the bulk metering as unfairly used against them, stating, “We don’t want bulk metering anymore. It is being unfairly used against us. Apart from your normal fee, the levy imposed on each resident will be an average of N1.2m per annum. This is an extra cost, and we feel that if we have individual metering, this may not be the case. So, we feel the bulk metering is being used as a weapon against the residents.”

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Former estate executive member, Henry Onaga, outlined additional demands made by the residents, including the removal of bulk metering, the commencement of individual metering, the execution of a Service Level Agreement (SLA) between the estate promoters and residents, and the addressing of heightened insecurity within the estate.

Efforts to reach the manager of Trojan Estates, Kunle Tinubu, were unsuccessful as calls to his phone did not connect, and a text message sent to him remained unanswered at the time of filing this report.

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