Introduction
Nigeria is on the brink of a significant nationwide protest slated to begin on August 1, 2024. The protest, driven by mounting economic hardships and dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the country’s affairs, has garnered both fervent support and stern opposition from various groups across the nation. Recently, the controversy has escalated with high-profile figures entering the fray, adding layers of complexity to the unfolding situation.
Activists Stand Firm
Leading the charge are notable activists Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN) of the Take It Back Movement and Mr. Deji Adeyanju of Concerned Nigerians. Both have emphasized their unwavering commitment to proceed with the protest, which aims to address issues of bad governance and economic mismanagement. Adegboruwa has formally notified security agencies, seeking protection for the planned rallies across Nigeria.
Adding to the tension, Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has recently demanded a public apology and ₦5 billion in damages from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, who alleged that Obi’s supporters were planning disruptive protests. Obi, through his counsel Alex Ejesieme, criticized the allegation as a malicious attempt to tarnish his reputation. The demand for apology and damages reflects the growing personal and political stakes involved in the protest narrative.
Regional and Religious Opposition
In contrast, prominent regional bodies such as Afenifere, the Yoruba Council of Elders, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and PANDEF have expressed reservations. These groups acknowledge the hardships faced by Nigerians but caution against the protest, suggesting it may lead to regret and unintended consequences. Religious organizations, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), have also warned against the potential for violence and further suffering, urging for patience and dialogue instead.
Political Voices and Legislative Appeals
Adding to the calls for caution, approximately 170 members of the House of Representatives, under the aegis of the “New Dawn Caucus – 10th Assembly,” have appealed to the youth to reconsider the protest. They advocate for dialogue with the government, highlighting recent legislative efforts like the passage of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and the commitment of lawmakers to forgo 50% of their salaries for six months to show solidarity with struggling citizens.
The protest’s backdrop includes accusations from Onanuga, who claimed that the planned protests are part of a scheme to unseat President Tinubu, linking them to previous unrest like the #EndSARS movement. Onanuga’s statement has further inflamed the situation, with accusations that the protestors are attempting a form of civilian coup. The lack of evidence to support these claims has only added to the controversy.
Economic Struggles and Social Discontent
The planned protest is a manifestation of the deep-seated economic frustrations felt by many Nigerians. Rising fuel prices, high inflation, and persistent unemployment have created a fertile ground for public discontent. The protest, tagged #EndBadGovernance, reflects the widespread desire for substantial and immediate government action to alleviate these hardships.
In response to these economic pressures, President Tinubu’s administration has taken steps to address the crisis, such as increasing the minimum wage and distributing palliatives. However, these measures have been met with skepticism by critics who argue that they fall short of addressing the root causes of the discontent.
Security Concerns
The federal government and security agencies have expressed concerns about the protest’s potential to destabilize the country, drawing parallels to the #EndSARS protests of 2020, which resulted in significant unrest and destruction. There is apprehension that the protest could be hijacked by miscreants, leading to violence and chaos.
Onanuga’s warnings about the involvement of figures linked to previous unrest have heightened these concerns. He has urged security agencies to act against those planning the protests, labeling them as anarchists and destabilizers. This has led to calls from various quarters for increased vigilance and precautionary measures.
Diverse Perspectives on Protest and Dialogue
While some groups, like the Igbo National Council (INC) and the Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL), support the protest, others, including members of the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPAMDA), urge for more constructive engagement with the government. They argue that while the right to protest is fundamental, the potential for negative outcomes necessitates a more cautious approach.
Conclusion
As Nigeria approaches the planned protest date, the nation stands at a crossroads. The contrasting views on how to address the economic challenges—through protest or dialogue—highlight the complexities of governance and civic activism in a democratic society. The coming days will reveal whether the call for action will lead to constructive change or further deepen the nation’s socio-political divides.
