In a significant revelation, human rights activist Mahdi Shehu has publicly disclosed a list of 40 sponsors behind the planned hardship protest scheduled for August 1, 2024, urging security agencies to take action against them.
The announcement was made via his X handle and has generated substantial attention.
He highlighted various critical issues driving the protest, including hunger, inflation, corruption, and poor governance.
Shehu emphasized the urgent need for addressing these issues, stating, “We’re not begging for power because power belongs to the people, and we, the people, are here to say enough is enough. Tackle these things and see if anyone will think of protesting. Enough of unnecessary chasing of irrelevant shadows and imaginary enemies. You are your own enemies.”
NAMES OF SPONSORS OF THE PROTEST HAVE BEEN RELEASED AS FOLLOWS. FORWARDED AS RECEIVED:
- Hunger
- Inflation
- Fuel pump price
- Minimum wage
- Power or no light
- Bad roads
- Budget padding
- INEC rigging of elections with impunity
- Highest cost of governance
- Highest bidder appointments
- Excessive borrowings for looting
- Crude oil theft
- Dysfunctional refineries
- Excess electricity and erratic tariffs
- Excessive bank charges
- Resource control
- 1999 constitution
- Need for restructuring
- Consumption instead of production
- Arable farmland without subsidized mechanized farming equipment
- Breakdown of law and order
- Injustices at the courts
- Failed civil service system
- Non-functional educational system
- Japa syndrome
- Corruption
- Unaccountability of public office holders
- Poor road networks
- Worst housing program
- Non-real estate funding
- High-interest rates for entrepreneurs
- Devastating economic policies
- Looting and lootocracy
- Growing division amongst ethnic groups
- Naira devaluation
- Poverty
- Non-support for local manufacturers and local contents
- Highest import duties ever
- Underfunded army and police
- Salaries and pension delays
This powerful statement reflects the widespread frustration and demands for change among the populace. As the protest date approaches, all eyes are on how the government will respond to these pressing concerns.