The clock is ticking, and the voices of discontent are growing louder as Nigerians prepare to take to the streets in a mass protest against the crippling economic hardship that has ravaged the nation since the Tinubu government came to power in May 2023.
With just three days to go, the atmosphere is electric, and the message is clear: enough is enough. From soaring food prices to crippling fuel scarcity, and from rampant unemployment to a dwindling standard of living, the people have had enough of the government’s failed promises and inaction.
As the planned mass protest is drawing near, intelligence agencies in the US, Canada, and UK began to sensitize their citizens on social media and encrypted channels. The messages spoke of a growing frustration among Nigerians, tired of the government’s inaction and ready to take drastic measures.
The three countries, in separate travel advisories, warned their citizens of potential violence during the planned #EndBadGovernance protest.
The advisory counselled them to avoid crowds and demonstrations and monitor local media for updates.
With memories of past protests in Nigeria, especially the popular 2020 #EndSars protest, turning violent, the US, Canada, and UK couldn’t afford to take any chances. They urged their citizens to stay indoors, avoid public gatherings, and prepare for potential disruptions to essential services.
In its security advisory, the US Mission in Abuja advised Americans to avoid getting caught in the rallies.
The advisory cautioned the American citizens to avoid crowds and demonstrations and monitor local media for updates.
The alert reads in part: “According to media reports, nationwide protests may occur in Nigeria between July 29th and August 5th, 2024. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion and physical confrontations. No specific times or locations have been identified for potential protests at this time.
“Actions to take: Monitor local media for updates; avoid crowds, avoid demonstrations, be aware of your surroundings, review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; carry proper identification.
“The consular sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos will remain open during regular business hours and consular services will be provided as scheduled.”
In the same vein, the UK High Commission said the protests could occur between July 29 and August 10 in Abuja, Lagos and other large cities.
It warned of the likelihood of violence during the rallies, noting that past protests turned violent with little warning.
The Canadian government also alerted its citizens in Nigeria about the demonstrations, which it said could disrupt traffic and public transportation and “turn violent at any time.”
Nigerians are increasingly expressing frustration and disappointment with President Bola Tinubu’s administration as the country grapples with worsening economic hardship.
Despite promises of change, many citizens who spoke with our correspondent felt that the government has failed to deliver on its economic promises, leading to widespread discontent.
Critics point to soaring inflation, a stagnant economy, and a lack of jobs as evidence of the administration’s inability to address the country’s economic woes.
The hike in fuel prices and electricity tariffs has further exacerbated the situation, leaving many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.
The protest organizers, operating under the #EndBadGovernance movement, have been mobilising youths and civil society groups to protest against the various social and economic challenges ravahi the country.
With memories of past protests in Nigeria, especially the popular 2020 #EndSars protest, turning violent, the US, Canada, and UK couldn’t afford to take any chances. They urged their citizens to stay indoors, avoid public gatherings, and prepare for potential disruptions to essential services.
