As part of a global event, Americans and others outraged by the turmoil and devastation caused by the Trump presidency gathered in Lagos on Saturday 5th April, for a peaceful protest against anti-democratic movements.
The demonstrators condemned the Republican agenda in the US, describing it as a “hostile takeover” and a direct assault on American rights and freedoms.
The Lagos event was part of a global wave of over 1400 demonstrations, with other rallies taking place in cities like Lisbon and Porto. More than half a million people participated worldwide, with no reports of arrests or violence.
One protester in Lagos said, “The dictatorship in Portugal ended 50 years ago with the Carnation Revolution. Now, in the US, Trump is trying to become the dictator.”
The crowd of protesters chanted, “Hands off our free speech, healthcare, education, and pensions – long live democracy!”
“This mass mobilisation day is our message to the world that we do not consent to the destruction of our governments and our economies, for the benefit of Trump and his billionaire allies.,” said one protester.
The Hands Off 2025 flyer being handed to passers-by urged, “Alongside Americans across the USA, we are marching, rallying, and protesting to demand a stop to the chaos and the dismantling of democracies around the world. Join us as we stand together in solidarity to oppose the erosion of democratic principles.”
