Houston Protesters Demand Security, Accountability in Nigeria

Nigerians in Houston, United States, have joined calls for improved security, good governance, and greater democratic accountability in Nigeria, staging a peaceful protest to draw attention to challenges facing the country.

The demonstration, held at the John P. McGovern Stella Link Regional Library, was led by Lucky Eyo with support from prominent community advocates, including Emmanuel Amede, Nath, alongside other members of the Nigerian diaspora community. Organizers said the event was part of the broader activities of the Take It Back Movement, a civic group advocating for transparency, citizens’ rights, and responsible leadership.

Carrying placards with messages such as “Enough is Enough,” “End Bad Governance,” and “Secure Our Schools,” protesters expressed concern over rising insecurity, kidnappings, attacks on communities, and the economic difficulties affecting many Nigerians. Speaking at the event, Eyo said Nigerians abroad could no longer remain silent while citizens at home continue to face fear and uncertainty. “Nigeria has enormous potential, but people should be able to live, work, and travel safely in their own country,” he said.

A major focus of the protest was the safety of school children and teachers. Demonstrators called on security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing the release of abducted students and educators still being held by armed groups. They argued that continued attacks on schools threaten the future of education and discourage learning in vulnerable communities.

The protesters also raised concerns about governance, corruption, and public accountability, stressing that democracy should go beyond elections and include transparency, respect for the rule of law, and effective representation of citizens. They further encouraged Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and taking part in future elections.

Participants at the gathering voiced their concerns describing it as a reflection of the feelings shared by many Nigerians both at home and abroad. They pledged to continue advocating peacefully for reforms that promote security, justice, and national development, insisting that Nigerians deserve a country where citizens can live with dignity, safety, and confidence in public institutions.