Hardship: Nigerians Plan Mass Protests Amid Government Pushback
Nigerians across the country are gearing up for mass protests starting August 1st, demanding economic and political reforms. However, the government appears poised to suppress these demonstrations.
Mobilized by the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, frustrated Nigerians have taken to social media to voice their concerns. Yet, the government’s response has been to convene meetings with traditional and religious leaders and issue threats through security agencies to prevent the protests from either occurring or escalating into violence.
In preparation, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has called for a meeting with mobile police commanders to strategize for the upcoming protests. An anonymous commander confirmed to PREMIUM TIMES that the sole purpose of the Abuja meeting is to prepare for these protests.
The mobile police, often deployed to manage riots, suggest that the police are concerned the protests could turn violent. While IGP Egbetokun has stated that the police will protect peaceful protesters, he also emphasized their duty to prevent destruction and maintain order.
The government’s heavy-handed approach includes requests for protest organizers to provide detailed information to state police commissioners, and the involvement of mobile police raises fears of potential violence, reminiscent of the 2020 #EndSARS protests where demonstrators faced deadly force.
Despite the government’s attempts to prevent the protests, the organizers, including groups like the Take It Back Movement led by former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, remain resolute. They demand action on the faltering economy and other critical issues. Their demands include reversing the fuel price hike, restoring affordable electricity tariffs, reducing import duties, and reversing increases in tertiary education fees. They also call for transparency in governance, including public disclosure and reduction of officials’ salaries, and reforms in the electoral and judicial systems.
The government’s strategies to suppress the protests include threats, arrests, and detentions. Security forces have issued stern warnings against the protests, but the organizers, supported by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong, are determined to proceed. The Take It Back Movement has already faced challenges, such as the freezing of its bank account by the DSS, which it plans to contest legally.
In some northern states like Kano, Kaduna, and Sokoto, arrests related to the protests have already begun. The government has warned against the protests in other northern states, indicating a broader strategy to prevent these demonstrations.
As the protest date approaches, tensions are rising. Observers warn the government to learn from the #EndSARS protests and avoid a violent crackdown. Meanwhile, President Tinubu has been meeting with Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, and APC governors to dissuade Nigerians from protesting, urging patience and promising improved governance.
In these challenging times, the determination of the protestors reflects a broader demand for accountability and change in Nigeria. Whether these protests will lead to meaningful reforms or be suppressed by the government remains to be seen.