As the countdown to October 1st Independence Day begins, organisers of a nationwide protest slated for the day have reached out to the Nigerian Police, asking for adequate security for all participants.
In a joint statement, groups including the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Movement for Fundamental Change (MFC), and Youth Rights Campaign (YRC) emphasised the need for a peaceful demonstration.
Hassan Soweto, the national coordinator of the ERC, urged Nigerians to join the protest against what they call “anti-poor policies.”
“The government must listen to the people,” he stated.
The protest in Lagos is set to start at 7:30 AM at the Ikeja under bridge.
Participants plan to march through the city streets to raise awareness about their demands.
The organizers have also written to Olanrewaju Ishola, the Lagos state commissioner of police.
They reminded him of the Police Establishment Act 2020, which mandates the provision of security during public events.
“We inform the Commissioner of Police of our planned action and remind him of the law,” the groups wrote.
“This action is a warning to the Tinubu administration,” the organizers added.
“If our demands are not met, more protests will follow the National Day of Survival.”
The reasons for this protest are deeply rooted in frustration with the current government.
“We invite you on another journey to redeem our nation,” their statement reads.
The groups point out that many of their previous demands remain unaddressed.
“None of the demands from our ten days of rage in August has been met,” they lamented.
Instead of addressing citizens’ needs, they allege that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has squandered public funds on luxury items for himself and his family.
“While the people suffer, he buys luxury cars and aircraft,” said Soweto.
Recently, the price of fuel surged to alarming rates, reaching between N900 and N1900 per liter in different regions of the country.
Just two years ago, the price was not more than N200 per liter.
“This is outrageous and intolerable,” the organizers declared.
The impact of rising fuel prices is being felt across Nigeria.
Food prices have skyrocketed, leading to increased hunger among the population.
Many citizens are struggling to make ends meet, as the new National Minimum Wage of N70,000 fails to provide relief.
Inflation has left many families in dire straits, with traders unable to sell their goods.
The rising cost of imported products has forced some businesses to shut down.
“Ten multinational firms have left Nigeria since May last year,” the statement revealed.
This has led to significant job losses and further economic decline.
In response to these harsh realities, the #EndBadGovernance Movement has declared October 1st, 2024, as a “National Day of Survival.”
They are calling on every Nigerian to join in peaceful protests against the dire conditions imposed by the government.
The organizers aim to highlight the “excruciating hardship, poverty, and hunger” facing citizens.
They are also demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all #EndSARS and #EndBadGovernance protesters currently in custody.
“We call for freedom for detained journalists, whistleblowers, and activists,” they stated.
The organisers stress the need for unity among Nigerians.
“We must come together and make our voices heard,” they urged.
In a country where many feel unheard, this protest is an opportunity for citizens to express their grievances.
“We cannot remain silent in the face of injustice,” Soweto concluded.
