Nigeria Protests: Nationwide Demonstrations Against Hardship and Bad Governance

Citizens across Nigeria are actively demanding an end to economic hardship and bad governance through nationwide protests. In response, the government is deploying security forces to maintain order and prevent violence. However, human rights groups are criticizing attempts to suppress the protests, emphasizing the importance of protecting peaceful demonstrations.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that protests are being held in various states, including Abia, Kano, Yobe, Borno, Lagos, Niger, Kaduna, and Rivers. While some protests are remaining peaceful, others are turning violent, resulting in reported deaths and injuries.

Abia State

Notably, residents in Abia state are opting out of the national protest, citing reasons such as not voting for Tinubu. In contrast, Kano state is imposing a 24-hour curfew after public facilities were looted. Similarly, Yobe and Borno states are also imposing curfews.

Lagos State

In Lagos, police are restoring peace after firing tear gas at protesters at the Admiralty Lekki Phase 1 Toll Gate. Consequently, many shops, supermarkets, malls, and banks in the area are closing, while few eateries remain open.

Niger State

Tragically, security operatives are killing at least six protesters and injuring others in Suleja, Niger state, as they dislodge protesters who mounted barricades on a section of the Abuja-Kaduna highway. Additionally, one person is dying in Kaduna state.

Ojota, Lagos and Kano State

Furthermore, protesters are clashing with individuals siding with the government in Ojota, Lagos. In Kano, some protesters are vandalizing public facilities, including traffic lights.

Ibadan, Oyo State & Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Despite the challenges, peaceful protests are being reported in Ibadan, Oyo state, and Port Harcourt, Rivers state. In Ibadan, dozens of youths are joining the protest against hardship, led by Comrade Akeem Lawal. Similarly, protesters in Port Harcourt are singing the old national anthem instead of the new one.

FCT, Abuja

Some protesters are being motivated by hunger and economic hardship, with one individual reportedly being promised N5,000 to protest in favor of the government. Meanwhile, others are daring government officials, including Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister, who had said the territory would be unavailable for protesters.

Ultimately, the nationwide protests are sparking widespread anxiety among government officials, who are urging for patience and constructive dialogue to address the issues. However, protesters remain determined to make their grievances known.