A 102-year-old grandmother recently made headlines when she joined the hunger protest in Delta State, Nigeria, alongside a group of determined youths.
The protest, which erupted in response to the country’s economic hardships, saw the elderly woman defiantly marching alongside the younger generation, united in their demand for government action to alleviate the widespread hunger and poverty affecting the nation.
Amidst chants of “We are hungry!” and “End bad governance!”, the centenarian grandmother, whose name has not been disclosed, demonstrated her unwavering commitment to the cause. Despite her advanced age, she refused to be deterred by the challenges of participating in the protest, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the desperation felt by many Nigerians.
The Delta State protest is part of a larger nationwide movement that has gained momentum in recent weeks. Inspired by the success of similar demonstrations in Kenya, where protesters compelled the government to abandon proposed tax increases, Nigerians have taken to the streets to voice their discontent with the rising cost of living and the government’s perceived failure to address their concerns.
As the protest unfolded, the elderly grandmother’s presence served as a poignant reminder of the far-reaching impact of the economic crisis. Her participation, alongside the passionate chants of the youths, highlighted the universal struggle for access to basic necessities and the urgent need for meaningful change.
The Delta State protest, like many others across the country, has faced a heavy-handed response from law enforcement. In some instances, police have resorted to firing live ammunition and deploying tear gas to disperse the crowds, leading to injuries and further fueling the protesters’ determination.
Despite the challenges, the centenarian grandmother and her fellow protesters remain steadfast in their demands. They call upon the government to address the root causes of the economic crisis, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which has contributed to the soaring prices of essential goods and services.
As the nation grapples with the consequences of its economic policies, the image of a 102-year-old grandmother joining the fight for food and justice has become a powerful symbol of the resilience and unity of the Nigerian people. Her presence serves as a testament to the generational impact of the crisis and the shared responsibility to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
