Nigerians are asking the Government of President Bola Tinubu when the promised dividend of democracy under his government will start yielding goodies, because people are already dying of hunger.
"End Bad
Governance" Protests Erupt Across Nigeria Amid Economic Turmoil
By a Reporter, Staff Writer
August 1, 2024 — Lagos, Nigeria
Today, Nigeria witnessed a significant wave of civil unrest as thousands of citizens took to the streets in major cities, including Lagos,
Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt, protesting against the government's economic
policies and perceived mismanagement. The "#EndBadGovernance" demonstrations were
primarily fueled by widespread dissatisfaction over the removal of fuel
subsidies, currency devaluation, and escalating living costs.
The protests were largely organised through social media
platforms, with hashtags like #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria and #TinubuMustGo trending nationwide. Participants from diverse
backgrounds—students, workers, and civil society groups—voiced their
grievances, demanding policy reversals and greater accountability from President
Bola Tinubu's administration.
In Abuja, security forces deployed tear gas to disperse
demonstrators near the Federal Secretariat, leading to chaotic scenes and
several injuries. Similar confrontations occurred in Kano, where at least one
protester was reported dead and others injured due to police actions. In Minna,
Niger State, six individuals lost their lives when police attempted to clear
road blockades.
The economic backdrop of the protests includes a 28-year
high inflation rate of 34.19% as of June, exacerbated by the government's
removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira. These measures have
led to soaring prices for essential goods and services, placing immense strain
on the average Nigerian.
However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, addressing the nation, acknowledged the
hardships faced by citizens but defended his economic reforms as necessary for
long-term stability. He called for an end to the protests and invited dialogue,
though many demonstrators remain skeptical of the government's intentions.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has also weighed in, urging
the government to reconsider its policies and prioritise the welfare of the
populace. In a statement, the NLC emphasised the need for immediate action to
alleviate the economic burdens faced by Nigerians.
As the protests continue, the nation watches closely, with
hopes that the voices of the people will lead to meaningful change and a
reevaluation of policies impacting millions.
This is a developing story; updates will follow as more
information becomes available.
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