EndBadGovernance Protest Intensifies, Security Forces Confront Protesters Across Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria – The #EndBadGovernance protest, which has swept across Nigeria, escalated on its second day as security forces clashed with demonstrators in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. In Lagos, thugs menacingly threatened to behead protesters and journalists, while police officers looked on. Meanwhile, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, protesters converged at the Federal Secretariat area.

At the Ojota protest grounds in Lagos, activist Zokira Ibeh detailed the escalating situation to Middle Belt Times: “We gathered here as early as 7 a.m. Initially, it was peaceful until about 20 thugs arrived, causing a surge in tension. They explicitly threatened to behead me and a media person. It’s crucial to note that the Police, who are duty-bound to protect us during this peaceful protest, were present but did nothing as thugs disrupted our demonstration.”

In contrast, Ibadan, Oyo State, has thus far remained relatively calm, with businesses resuming operations.

In Abuja, a contingent of heavily armed Nigerian Police officers forcibly dispersed a group of protesters near Berger Bridge. The protesters, chanting “Hunger dey oo, hunger dey ooo” (There’s hunger, there’s hunger), were met with tear gas and forceful dispersal by the officers. Passers-by and motorists, caught off-guard, criticized the police for their heavy-handed approach.

As the protest continues, the situation remains volatile, with calls for an end to bad governance echoing across the nation amid growing concerns over the safety of protesters and the role of law enforcement in maintaining public order.

Middle Belt Forum’s Caution on Kaduna Protest Vindicated as Hoodlums Vandalize Government Offices

Kaduna, Nigeria – Following the recent incidents of vandalism and looting during the #EndBadGovernance protest in Kaduna State, the earlier advisory by the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), Kaduna State chapter, urging Middle Belt youths to refrain from participating in the protest appears prescient. The MBF had expressed concerns that the protest, aimed at addressing governance issues, could be exploited by unknown sponsors for ulterior motives, as reported by the Middle Belt Times on July 24, 2024.

The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed that hoodlums vandalized the offices of the State Traffic and Law Environmental Authority (KASTLEA) and the Investment Promotions Agency (KADIPA) during the protest. Additionally, an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) was set ablaze, and numerous shops were looted. Police spokesperson Mansir Hassan informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that 23 suspects have been detained in connection with these incidents.

Hassan also noted that while police personnel did not use live ammunition, they resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd, which attempted to breach the Government House. Several officers sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals.

The MBF’s earlier statement, cautioning against the involvement of Middle Belt youths in the protest, highlighted potential security risks and the possibility of foreign elements escalating the situation into violence. This foresight has been validated by the events that unfolded, underscoring the importance of strategic caution in public demonstrations.

As the situation in Kaduna State continues to unfold, the MBF’s stance serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and unity among residents to safeguard their welfare and the integrity of their collective voice against governance challenges.

For further details on the MBF’s initial advisory, please refer to the original report published by the Middle Belt Times at Middle Belt Times Article.