Nigerians are gearing up for fresh protests set to kick off nationwide on October 1, coinciding with the country’s 64th Independence Day celebration. The protests, organized under the banner of #EndBadGovernance, follow a similar series of demonstrations held in August.
The primary demands from protesters, including addressing high inflation, poverty, and insecurity, remain largely unaddressed by the Federal Government, despite President Bola Tinubu’s earlier promise to engage in dialogue.
Civil society organizations, including the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), expressed concern over the government’s lack of action. “The government’s response to the October 1 protests could depend on the scale and public reaction,” said ANEEJ Executive Secretary David Ugolor.
Activists also raised concerns about the continued detention of over 1,000 protesters from the August demonstrations. “The ongoing detention of protesters raises serious concerns regarding human rights violations,” Ugolor added.
The protests aim to bring renewed attention to these issues, and organizers hope for meaningful dialogue, although skepticism remains high. “There is little reason to believe they will be more receptive to protesters’ demands this time around,” said Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights Nigeria.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
