Tension is escalating across Nigeria as organizers of the nationwide protests, scheduled from August 1 to 10, have vowed to proceed despite rising concerns. The protests aim to highlight the severe economic hardships affecting citizens and push the government to reverse policies contributing to the current crisis.
Rising
Tension and Public Frustration
The
upcoming protests have sparked significant anxiety among government officials,
business owners, and security agencies. Organizers emphasize that the
demonstrations are intended to draw attention to the widespread hunger and
economic challenges plaguing Nigerians.
The
tension is palpable as citizens prepare to voice their frustrations through
mass protests across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The
organizers hope to persuade the current administration to reconsider policies
that have exacerbated economic difficulties.
Economic
Hardship and Rising Prices
Since
President Bola Tinubu announced the end of the fuel subsidy in 2023, Nigeria
has been grappling with severe economic challenges. The National Bureau of
Statistics reported a dramatic increase in food prices, exacerbating the
hardship for many Nigerians.
- White
Garri (1kg): Increased by 181.66% from N403.15 in
June 2023 to N1,135.51 in June 2024.
- Brown
Beans (1kg): Rose by 252.13% from N651.12 in June
2023 to N2,292.76 in June 2024.
- Yam
Tuber (1kg): Increased by 295.79% from N510.77 in
June 2023 to N2,021.55 in May 2024.
- Irish
Potato (1kg): Skyrocketed by 288.5% from
N623.75 in June 2023 to N2,423.27 in June 2024.
The
inability of many Nigerians to afford basic necessities has fueled the
motivation for the protests, dubbed the "Days of Rage."
Security
Concerns
Security
agencies have raised alarms about the potential for the protests to escalate
into violence. The Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Defence Headquarters, and
the Department of State Services (DSS) have all expressed concerns.
- Defence
Headquarters: Warned that the protests could
lead to anarchy and violence, targeting individuals with basic possessions
like smartphones and cars.
- Nigeria
Police Force: Issued a caution about
potential manipulation by foreign mercenaries and malicious groups aiming
to disrupt public order.
- Department
of State Services (DSS): Alerted the public
about plans by criminal elements to hijack the protests and cause unrest.
Organizers
Remain Resolute
Despite
these warnings, organizers of the protest remain steadfast. Omoyele Sowore, a
former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) and a key
organizer, confirmed that the protests would proceed as planned. He indicated
that the protests might even begin earlier than scheduled due to mounting
pressure.
Sowore
also defended the inclusion of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous
People of Biafra (IPOB), in their list of demands, arguing that addressing such
injustices is crucial for Nigeria's progress.
Calls for
Dialogue
Various
stakeholders, including politicians, groups, and business owners, have urged
the organizers to consider dialogue instead of protests. The Pan-Yoruba
socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, emphasized the destructive consequences
of the 2020 EndSARS protests and advocated for peaceful resolution through
dialogue.
Arewa
Youths' Stance
The
Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) announced they would not participate in
the protests, citing the lack of well-defined objectives. AYCF President
General Yerima Shettima stressed the importance of peaceful assembly and warned
against violence and destruction.
Conclusion
As Nigeria braces for the planned protests, the tension continues to rise. While organizers remain committed to their cause, various stakeholders advocate for dialogue to prevent potential chaos and violence. The upcoming "Days of Rage" protests underscore the urgent need for effective solutions to Nigeria's economic hardships and governance issues.
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