Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day today, but the celebrations are overshadowed by protests against high living and energy costs. Thousands of citizens gathered in Lagos, the nation’s economic capital, to express their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.
#FearlessInOctober protests is a continuation of the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations that occurred from August 1 to 10. The protesters, carrying placards with messages expressing their frustration with the government, are demanding change amidst Nigeria’s economic hardship and hunger, described as the worst economic crisis in a generation.
Former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore joined the protest in Lagos, arriving at the Ikeja Underbridge at 8:50 am. Sowore emphasized that the protest symbolizes the people’s rejection of the government’s Independence Day celebration and questioned whether Nigerians had not given the government enough chances. He cited the alleged misuse of additional time by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Some of the protesters who spoke with Africa Health Report said they are calling for the reversal of economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu, which they claim have pushed many Nigerians into poverty and misery.
Their demands include reversing fuel subsidy removal, electricity tariff hikes, and other anti-people policies They also want the federal government to reverse neoliberal policies of privatization, deregulation, and devaluation of the Naira.
In Lagos, youths besieged the Ikeja UnderBridge area, bringing vehicular movement to a standstill. Protesters wielded large-format banners with statements like “Hunger Dey” and “Reverse Anti-People, Neoliberal Policies”. Similar protests took place in Abuja and other states, despite warnings from the government and security agencies.
This is not the first time Nigerians have taken to the streets to demand change. In 1978, the “Ali Must Go” protests erupted over a 50 kobo increase in food costs, leading to widespread demonstrations and eventually forcing the government to shut down universities. Today’s protests echo similar sentiments, highlighting the ongoing struggle for economic justice and good governance.
As Nigeria celebrates its independence, the #FearlessInOctober protests serve as a reminder of the country’s ongoing challenges and the need for urgent action to address the welfare of its citizens.
