Nigerians Plan Protests Over Rising Hardships
Nigerians are preparing for ten days of protests starting this Thursday, driven by frustration over severe economic difficulties, according to activist Banwo Olagokun speaking to the BBC. The Take It Back Movement, which Mr. Olagokun is part of, is organizing these protests to address soaring inflation and the high cost of living. People are struggling to afford basic necessities like food, water, and medical care due to inflation rates that have reached a 30-year high of 34.19%.
The protests come amid a worsening economic crisis in Nigeria, where food prices, like yams, have skyrocketed. Many Nigerians are forced to buy cheaper, less nutritious food to get by. The Take It Back Movement is demanding the government take action on the cost of living and provide free education.
The group has also proposed more radical changes, such as replacing the 1999 constitution and allowing Nigerians abroad to vote. They are inspired by recent successful protests in Kenya, which led to significant political changes there.
In response to the planned protests, Nigerian government officials, including President Bola Tinubu, have urged organizers to delay their plans, promising to address some concerns. However, recent government actions, like reopening business support applications and job listings, have been seen as insufficient by protest organizers, who believe these measures are just attempts to calm public dissent.
Nigeria’s economic troubles stem from several factors, including a major devaluation of the naira, the removal of fuel subsidies, and ongoing security issues. Critics argue that the government’s reforms were necessary but poorly planned.
The current situation has led to a significant backlash, with many fearing that protests could turn violent. Past demonstrations, like the #EndSARS protests in 2020, ended in violence, which is a concern for many. Despite these fears, protest organizers are determined to go ahead, feeling they have nothing to lose and are calling for widespread support.
For more details, the BBC provides extensive coverage on this topic.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cl7yrnwly4ro