5 things to know about Nigeria’s #EndBadGovernance protests
By: Aishat Ibrahim
Nigeria is preparing for widespread protests this week due to economic hardship. The nationwide protest is expected to start on Thursday, August 1, 2024, and will last for 10 days.
Here are five things to know about the protest:
Economic hardship — Root of the protest
Nigeria is experiencing its most severe cost-of-living crisis in a generation due to economic reforms implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who assumed office in May of last year. These reforms include removing the fuel subsidy and lifting currency controls, which have led to a threefold increase in petrol prices and a surge in inflation.
Government response
The authorities have cautioned against demonstrations, stating that the reforms are needed to put the country back in shape. They also mentioned that measures are being put in place to cushion the biting effects of the hardship.
Protest must hold — Organizers are insisting
The organizers argue that government failures have left them with no other option. Omoyele Sowore, the convener of the #RevolutionNow movement — one of the leading groups — has insisted that there is no going back. He urged Nigerian workers nationwide to participate in the 10-day protest and also encouraged those who cannot join the demonstrations to stay home in solidarity.
What are the security forces saying?
The Nigeria Police Force has issued stringent orders in preparation for the #EndBadGovernance protests. According to a police wireless message issued in July 2024, all officers and personnel on leave are required to resume duty immediately, with all forms of leave suspended. The Nigerian police chief, Kayode Egbetokun, disclosed that the military will intervene if the protest “gets out of hand.” The military has also cautioned protesters.
International community
Amnesty International has warned against threatening protesters, stating that doing so would undermine President Bola Tinubu’s legacy. The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have all issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the planned nationwide protests.
