Breaking news from Ogasabi and 9am news Nigeria: The #EndBadGovernance rally in Bauchi State faced disruption today as police fired tear gas at Protesters. The protestors had gathered in front of the Emir of Bauchi’s palace, seeking a meeting with him to express their concerns. However, they were met with a police blockade that prevented the Protesters from advancing. Despite the tear gas deployment, the youths remain resolute in continuing their protest.
Across Nigeria, economic activities have come to a halt as the long-awaited #EndBadGovernance protests spread to various locations, including Abuja, Abeokuta, Port Harcourt, and Lagos State. In these areas, banks and businesses have closed their doors, and the typically bustling streets are noticeably empty as protestors defy last-minute efforts by authorities to quash the demonstrations. The situation in Kaduna mirrors this trend, with usually busy highways now deserted as people take to the streets to voice their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs.
Economic Situation
The protest movement, driven by an online campaign under the hashtag #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria, has gained significant traction. This comes in response to the severe economic challenges facing Africa’s most populous nation, including soaring inflation and a drastically weakened naira currency. The situation has been exacerbated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent economic reforms, which, while aimed at revitalizing the economy, have led to a 40% increase in food inflation and tripled fuel prices.
In Abuja, security forces have cordoned off roads leading to Eagle Square, one of the designated protest sites. Similarly, in Lagos, police and soldiers are stationed at key locations, such as the Lekki tollgate. Early reports indicate a modest turnout, with only a few dozen protestors gathered at the national stadium in Abuja, where they were outnumbered by police, and a similar scene in the Ikeja area of Lagos.
A demonstrator in Abuja, Asamau Peace Adams, shared her reasons for participating, stating, “Hunger has brought me out to protest. It’s all down to bad governance.” Meanwhile, in Kano, another group of protestors gathered, highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction across the country.
Despite government warnings and advice for youth activists to avoid rallies, the protestors continue to mobilize. The government, recognizing the right to peaceful protest, has also announced measures to alleviate economic distress, such as increasing minimum wage levels, distributing grains to states, and providing assistance to the most vulnerable. In a statement, Secretary to the Federation of Government George Akume emphasized, “Our appeal is that Nigerians should please pursue the path of peace, dialogue, and collaboration.”
For the latest updates, stay tuned to Ogasabi and 9am news Nigeria as we continue to bring you breaking news from the #EndBadGovernance protests.
