Businesses Reopen Amid Ongoing Protest in Nigeria

A day into the second day of protests in Nigeria’s Port Harcourt city, businesses are slowly reopening amidst a relatively peaceful demonstration by protesters against the government. The River State capital has witnessed numerous protest sites across various locations, with some protests taking place at the Federal Secretariat and Mgbuoba NTA Road.

Addressing protesters at the Federal Secretariat, Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended their peaceful disposition, affirming that the police had no intention of confronting the protesters and that their presence was solely for protection.

Despite this assurance, Disu urged the protesters to avoid barricading the roads. "If you think we’re going to come here and have a confrontation with you, you have failed. If you think that is what is in your mind, it will not happen," he stated. The commissioner assured the protesters of police protection and promised to accompany them on their protests.

Protests began in Nigeria’s various cities over severe hardships caused by the government’s removal of fuel subsidies, rising inflation, and the deprecation of the national currency against the dollar.

This fresh wave of demonstrations demonstrates the strength of public outcry in the face of socio-economic woes in the country, marking a significant show of civic engagement across the nation.

Will Nigeria’s protest movement push the government to adopt lasting solutions to address these pressing concerns?