A wave of nationwide protests has erupted in Nigeria under the banner “End Bad Governance in Nigeria,” a powerful symbol of unity as citizens from diverse backgrounds come together to voice their dissatisfaction with escalating living costs and governance issues.
The demonstrations, which began on August 1, 2024, have been widely marked by the hashtag #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria as people exercise their right to challenge the current administration peacefully.
Reasons for the Protest
Nigeria is grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades. Annual inflation has surged to 34.19%, the highest rate over thirty years.
The cost of food has risen dramatically, with food inflation recorded at 24.82% in July, a significant increase from the previous year.
Fuel prices have soared from N189 before President Bola Tinubu’s tenure to as high as N1,300 during a recent shortage.
Public outrage has been further fueled by proposals for extravagant government spending, including a controversial N5 billion presidential yacht, two new Presidential Air Fleets costing N20.5 billion, N61.29 billion allocated for building renovations, and N6.82 billion earmarked for new vehicles.
These expenditures have sparked fury among Nigerians, who are struggling with a deteriorating economy and facing cuts to essential subsidies, including fuel and electricity.
Protesters’ Demands
The protests, aptly dubbed the “Days of Rage,” are set to continue until August 10, underscoring the urgency and determination of the protesters despite the lack of a unified leadership or a single set of demands.
Combating Inflation: There is a solid call to address the severe impact of inflation, particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the broader cost of living.
Improving Living Standards: Protesters demand better living conditions as the middle class dwindles amid rising costs.
Enhancing Government Efficiency and Transparency: Demonstrators seek a more efficient, transparent government engaged with grassroots issues.
The lack of a central leadership has led to varying demands across different regions, with some calling for more streamlined and focused objectives.
Government Response
Nigerian Minister of Information Mohammed Idris Malagihad has stated that the federal government is addressing many of the protesters’ demands. He cited recent initiatives, such as reducing rice prices, as evidence of the government’s efforts to meet public needs.
However, many Nigerians online argue that such measures are insufficient to mitigate the broader economic hardships they are experiencing.
As the protests continue to unfold, the central issue remains the significant disconnect between the government’s actions and the immediate needs of the populace, highlighting the persistent frustration with economic and governance challenges in Nigeria.
