As Nigeria braces for the #EndBadGovernance protests scheduled for August 1, security agencies have undertaken extensive measures to prevent potential unrest. The demonstrations, spearheaded by youth and civil society groups, aim to address the escalating economic hardships faced by citizens, particularly following the government’s removal of the petrol subsidy which has significantly increased transportation and food costs.
In a show of force, soldiers, policemen, and other security personnel have occupied key locations across the country, with a notable presence at the Eagle Square in Abuja. Over 300 security operatives and numerous military and police vehicles have been stationed at the venue in anticipation of the protests. This deployment follows a virtual meeting where the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, suggested confined protest areas for safety, a proposal that was rejected by the protest organizers on the grounds that it violated their fundamental rights.
Despite the security presence, the protest organizers, represented by human rights lawyers and civil society leaders, remain steadfast in their decision to hold nationwide demonstrations. They argue that the police should protect, rather than confine, protesters. However, a Lagos State High Court has restricted protests within the state to specific locations, citing concerns over public safety and potential property damage.
The court’s decision, prompted by the Lagos State Attorney-General, underscores the government’s efforts to prevent a repeat of the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which saw significant violence and destruction. Security measures have been bolstered nationwide, with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) deploying 30,000 personnel to safeguard public infrastructure and ensure peaceful demonstrations.
In addition to heightened security in Lagos, other states like Enugu, Imo, and Oyo have witnessed increased patrols and roadblocks. The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Ayodele Sonubi, emphasized the readiness of security personnel to maintain peace, while also acknowledging the right of citizens to protest.
Human rights advocates and civil society groups have criticized the extensive military and police deployment, urging the government to focus on addressing the protesters’ demands, which include reversing the petrol price hike, reducing government expenditure, and amending the 1999 Constitution.
As the August 1 protests approach, the atmosphere in Nigeria remains tense. Security agencies are on high alert to ensure the demonstrations do not escalate into violence, aiming to balance the protection of public order with the constitutional rights of citizens to express their grievances peacefully.
