News

June 12: Group calls off protest against Akpabio, Fagbemi, others

June 12: Group calls off protest against Akpabio, Fagbemi, others

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio

The Justice and Equity Movement has announced the cancellation of a planned protest slated for June 12.

The demonstration, which was initially intended to raise concerns about several senior government officials, was called off following what the group described as a review of the information that had informed the protest.

Those named in the planned action included Senate President Chief Godswill Obot Akpabio, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Olanipekun Olukoyede, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation Chief George Akume.

According to a statement by the group’s convener, Comrade Moshood Ajibola, the decision to cancel the protest followed internal findings that cast doubt on the credibility and intent behind the original campaign. Ajibola said the group chose not to proceed in order to avoid inadvertently spreading unverified claims or enabling agendas that could undermine public trust.

“We have reassessed the basis for the planned protest and concluded that some of the narratives presented to us were misleading and lacked sufficient factual backing,” Ajibola said. “Our movement stands firmly for justice and fairness, and we will not allow ourselves to be used to advance any form of misinformation.”

Ajibola urged other civil society organisations to apply due diligence in their advocacy work, particularly when dealing with politically sensitive matters. “The significance of June 12 should not be diminished by unfounded accusations or rushed judgments,” he noted. “We call on all actors in the civic space to prioritise truth and national interest above sensationalism.”

The Justice and Equity Movement also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and good governance through responsible civic engagement. It called on the public to remain vigilant but discerning, especially when engaging in actions that could impact the reputation of individuals or institutions.

As Nigerians commemorate June 12, a date that symbolises the country’s enduring struggle for democratic values, the group emphasised the need to honour that legacy through integrity, truth, and constructive dialogue.