Organizers of the #EndBadGovernance protests against economic hardship have announced that the nationwide rallies, which began their second day on Friday, will continue until President Bola Tinubu addresses their demands.
Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the Take It Back Movement, shared this update during an appearance on Channels Television’s The August Protests program.
Adenola revealed a notable development: human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, who had sought protection for the protesters from security agencies, no longer represents the group. Despite Adegboruwa’s previous involvement, he is not authorized to speak on behalf of the protesters.
The protests are set to run for 10 days, but Adenola indicated that they could extend depending on the government’s response. He emphasized that the protests reflect the deep economic struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians, contrasting this with Adegboruwa’s more comfortable position.
“We are waiting for the government to address our demands,” Adenola stated. “Until then, the protests will continue. Our actions have already sent a message to the current administration.”
The protests, which began on August 1, 2024, have seen some disruptions, including police use of tear gas to disperse demonstrators and reports of looting by opportunistic elements. In response to the unrest, several state governments have imposed curfews in affected areas.
Amnesty International has reported some fatalities linked to the protests, including the death of a police officer and injuries to several others. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, confirmed these incidents, noting damage to police stations as well.
The protests have been driven by widespread dissatisfaction over soaring food prices and a severe economic crisis exacerbated by the government’s policies on petrol subsidies and foreign exchange rates. Protesters are calling for the restoration of subsidies, addressing food shortages, reducing unemployment, cutting government spending, and reforming electoral and anti-corruption institutions.
The demonstrations are set to continue until August 10, encompassing all states and the nation’s capital, Abuja.
