Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), a youth-led civil society group, has planned a peaceful protest in Abuja to address growing political intolerance and undemocratic practices in Enugu State.

The protest, scheduled for August 17, 2026, aims to draw national attention to issues that could undermine democratic participation and public confidence in Nigeria's electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

In letters to the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), YOTSI emphasized their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and freedom of association.

The group warns that unchecked political intolerance and undemocratic actions by actors in Enugu could erode democratic progress, threaten national security, and discourage citizens from participating in elections.

Organizers assured security agencies the protest will be peaceful, orderly, and law-abiding, with participants instructed to avoid disrupting public peace.The protest highlights concerns over political intimidation and the need for democratic engagement to safeguard Nigeria's electoral process.

Kennedy Iyere, YOTSI's founding president, stressed that democracy thrives when citizens can freely express opinions, hold leaders accountable, and engage in politics without fear of harassment.

The demonstration is expected to attract around 3,000 participants, gathering at Maitama Roundabout before proceeding to INEC's headquarters in Abuja.