Nigeria’s Tipping Point: Protests, Violence, Insecurity

By Nneka Acholonu Egbuna*

On August 1, 2024, Nigerians, driven by desperation and frustration, took to the streets under the slogan: #EndBadGovernance.

The widespread hunger, economic crisis, and alleged mismanagement of scarce resources had become unbearable, sparking a collective demand for change.

The #EndBadGovernance protest, which began on social media, gained momentum and evolved into a nationwide phenomenon, with a 10-day demonstration schedule starting on August 1.

The inadequate response to Nigeria’s pressing issues sparked widespread frustration and disillusionment among the population.

The protesters demanded: Reversal of the oil subsidy removal;Reversal of the electricity tariff increment; Removal of corrupt oil sector personnel suspected of embezzling Nigeria’s wealth;Government action to address hunger and food insecurity, rising inflation and cost of living, high fuel costs and poverty and economic hardship; Insecurity and violence; Corruption and graft as well as Infrastructure decay and neglect.

“The government on its part has been doing quite a bit”, says the President of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr. Ike Neliaku, “but the issue is that the communication may not have been hitting the right target.

“Therefore the people may not know what is going on.”

The protest marks another turning point in Nigeria’s history, as citizens unite to demand accountability, reform, and a better future.

“As the #EndBadGovernance protests continue, some parts of the country have witnessed an escalation into lootings, riots, and violence, resulting to curfews.

“Security forces have reportedly used excessive force, including tear gas and live ammunition, to disperse protesters in multiple states, including the capital city of Abuja.

In response to this crackdown, many protesters have pledged to regroup and resume demonstrations for the remaining days of the planned 10-day protest. Others have vowed to extend the protests beyond the initial timeframe if their demands are not met, indicating a growing resolve to push for change.

The situation remains volatile. Tensions run high between protesters and security forces.

Will the authorities (at Federal, State and Local levels) heed the people’s demands, or will the country descend into further turmoil?

The government’s ability to meet the demands of the people is crucial in determining the outcome of this critical moment in Nigeria’s history.

• Egbuna is a Development and humanitarian communication analyst