Nationwide Protests in Nigeria: Citizens Decry Hardship and Inaction
As the nationwide protest against the current economic hardship and political instability in Nigeria began across the country, business outfits, including banks and commercial institutions, were forced to shut down, and major roads were deserted. Residents stayed indoors, fearing violence, as protesters marched through the streets, decrying the level of hardship and calling for action from the government.
Comrade Onyebuchi Igboke, coordinator of a Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, led the protesters in Enugu metropolis, moving from Naira Triangle to New Haven and terminating at Okpara Square. Igboke addressed journalists, saying, "We are protesting because the President is highly insensitive to the hardship across the country. We all can agree that in this country, everyone is suffering. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, or traditionalist, we are all suffering."
The protesters also criticized the government’s inability to address the country’s pressing issues, including the non-functional refineries, hunger, insecurity, and unemployment. "We are tired of hearing politicians tell us to endure," Igboke said. "Endure till when? We want to see a clear direction from the government on how to address these issues."
The protesters also called for the president to reduce his cabinet, fight corruption, and go after those benefiting from the fuel subsidy removal. Igboke urged the government to "deploy those policemen to the farms to secure our farms. We need food to eat. They should go into the farm because Nigerians are hungry."
The protesters have vowed to continue their protest until the president does the needful. In a message to the people, Igboke said, "We are not going to give up. We will continue. We are telling the people that the security agencies are not going to suppress you. Democracy is about your voice, but be peaceful about it."
As the protest continues, citizens across the country are demanding action from their government to address the economic and political challenges facing the nation.
