The “End Bad Government” peaceful protest is scheduled to take place from August 1 to August 10, with Nigerian citizens, especially the youth, set to voice their discontent across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
This mass protest comes amid rising economic challenges and government efforts to discourage the movement.
The organizers have released a list of ten demands directed at President Bola Tinubu’s administration, highlighting critical areas needing immediate attention and reform:
- Revert Petrol Pump Price: Reduce the petrol pump price from the current 800 to N100 per liter.
- Combat Insecurity and Hunger: Address the nation’s insecurity and hunger issues, close all IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps, and resettle the campers.
- Electoral Reform and Probe: Implement total electoral reform and conduct an independent investigation into the electoral budget of N355 billion.
- Release of #EndSARS Protesters: Ensure the immediate release of all #EndSARS protesters still in detention.
- Living Wages: Implement a living wage with a minimum of N300,000.
- Compulsory Free Education: Guarantee free education from primary to secondary school, with educational grants at the tertiary level.
- Public Education for Politicians’ Children: Mandate that the children of all public office holders attend public schools in Nigeria.
- Support for Local Products: Ensure that the government patronizes made-in-Nigeria goods.
- Unicameral Legislature: Transition to a unicameral legislative system.
- Judicial and Constitutional Reform: Undertake comprehensive judicial and constitutional reforms.
Background and Context
The planned protests arise from a backdrop of severe economic hardship affecting many Nigerians, especially the youth. The removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange windows have contributed to one of the worst inflation crises in Nigeria’s history, with staple food prices soaring by over 250% in just over a year. Although President Tinubu recently approved a new minimum wage of N70,000, many citizens argue that it remains insufficient to meet their needs.
Former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili has voiced support for the protests, urging the government to engage with the youth and handle the situation with empathy. She criticized the government’s response to the planned demonstrations, calling for protection and support for peaceful protesters.
In response to the looming protests, the Nigerian government has sought to quell unrest by appealing for patience and promising to address citizens’ concerns. However, the military has warned of potential intervention should the protests escalate into violence.
Student Involvement
Additionally, student organizations such as the National Association of University Students (NAUS), the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), and the National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES) have declared their intention to participate in the protests. They have expressed deep concern over the economic conditions affecting students, including rising costs of living and inadequate government support.
As the protest date approaches, tensions remain high, with both government officials and citizens bracing for the potential impact of these mass demonstrations.
Despite the government’s attempts to dissuade the movement, Nigerians are determined to protest peacefully for these demands, seeking significant changes in governance and policies that directly impact their lives.
