The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have raised concerns about the potential for violence during the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest scheduled for August 1 in Nigeria.
The foreign missions issued travel alerts cautioning their nationals to avoid getting caught in confrontations between security agencies and protesters, citing past incidents.
The advisories come as apprehensive market leaders across the country request strong security around markets during the rallies. In preparation for the demonstration, the police authorities have recalled all personnel on non-essential duties, while the military has cancelled leaves and passes for its personnel.
The protest organizers, under the #EndBadGovernance tag, have intensified the mobilization of youths and civil society groups to participate in the rallies against the economic hardship in the country and the alleged failure of the Tinubu administration to address the people’s plight. The protests are expected to take place between July 29 and August 10 in Abuja, Lagos, and other large cities.
The Presidency has challenged Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to lead the protest after he endorsed it during a visit to Abia State. President Bola Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, accused Obi of playing the “master puppeteer” behind the scenes and urged him to follow the example of former President Muhammadu Buhari and Tinubu, who led protests as opposition leaders.
Market leaders across various states, including the FCT, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Ogun, Osun, Zamfara, and Gombe, have held meetings to discuss measures to protect their investments and businesses against potential attacks or looting by suspected hoodlums posing as protesters. Some markets have partnered with security agencies and local vigilantes to beef up security during the demonstration.
Meanwhile, some state governors and political figures have called on youths to shun the protest, claiming it is sponsored by frustrated politicians and could lead to violence and economic disruption. The police have also requested details of the protest organizers to facilitate effective communication and ensure the safety of participants, a move criticized by some organizers as unconstitutional.
As the planned protest draws near, tensions remain high, with security agencies on high alert and foreign missions advising their citizens to exercise caution and avoid large gatherings. The outcome of the demonstration and its impact on Nigeria’s economy and political stability remain to be seen.
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