The movement #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, began as an outcry against rising food prices, high inflation, and poor governance. What started as frustration over economic hardships quickly grew into a powerful demand for political reforms.
The protests were organized by various youth groups and activists, with the Take It Back Movement leading the charge. They called for a 10-day demonstration starting on August 1, demanding the reversal of policies like the removal of petrol subsidies and the floating of the naira. These policies, they argued, worsened the cost-of-living crisis.
Thousands of Nigerians took to the streets, fueled by anger and urgency. In the
southern regions, the protests began peacefully. Demonstrators marched with placards and chanted for change. But as the protests spread to the northern states, the situation turned violent. In Kano and Niger, peaceful protests descended into chaos. Clashes between protesters and security forces led to tragic deaths and property damage. Curfews were imposed in at least five northern states.
Despite calls from President Bola Tinubu and other officials to stop the protests, the organizers stood firm. They argued that the protests were necessary to show the people’s frustration with the government’s failure to address key issues like hunger, unemployment, and corruption. One organizer stated, “These protests are about holding our leaders accountable and demanding a better future for all Nigerians.”
As the protests grew, the government responded with force. By August 10, over 1,100 protesters had been arrested, mainly in the northern states. Those arrested now face charges like vandalism, theft, and incitement. On August 12, the Yobe State Command announced that legal proceedings would continue against 108 individuals. In Kano, 632 protesters are set to appear in court on August 19. Other states, including Gombe, Kaduna, Bauchi, and Niger, have also started prosecuting those arrested, with court hearings scheduled throughout the month.
The government’s crackdown has faced heavy criticism from human rights organizations and civil society groups.
Amnesty International and local activists condemned the excessive use of force by the police, reporting that at least 21 protesters were killed in the early days of the demonstrations. “The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental human right,” Amnesty International said. “The Nigerian government’s response to these protests has been deeply troubling.”
Deji Adeyanju, a prominent protest leader and lawyer, has been outspoken in his criticism of the government. He has worked to secure the release of detained protesters. On August 11, Adeyanju confirmed that 26 protesters and journalists had been released from police and Department of State Services (DSS) custody. However, he expressed deep concern for the hundreds who remain in custody across the country, particularly in cities like Kano, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Jigawa.
Adeyanju did not hold back in his criticism of President Tinubu, accusing him of betraying the principles he once stood for. “It is ironic and deeply saddening that a man who was once a protester has now become the oppressor, disregarding the fundamental rights of his fellow citizens,” Adeyanju said. He warned that if the remaining detainees were not released within 48 hours, legal action would be taken against the government.
The protests have left a lasting impact on Nigeria. What began as a response to economic hardship has grown into a larger movement among Nigerian youth demanding accountability and reform.
Activists now emphasize the need for sustained engagement beyond protests. They urge the government to listen to the people’s demands and implement necessary reforms to address the deep-seated issues facing the nation.
As Nigeria stands at a crucial moment, the future remains uncertain. Will the government listen to its citizens, or will the demands for change continue to echo unanswered in the streets? The answer will shape the nation’s future.