ICYMI: Confusion as “say no to protest” protest erupts in Nigeria

There was confusion after some anti-protest groups in states like Kebbi, Bayelsa, Lagos, etc. kickstarted their protest to counter the planned August 1, 2024, #EndBadGovernance protest across Nigeria.

Social media influencer, VeryDarkMan, and a few others had started their end hardship protest on Sunday, July 28, while some other states like Niger State started theirs on Monday, July 29, 2024.

“Say no to protest” protesters

“Say no to protest” protesters

President Bola Tinubu’s administration tried to stop the hunger protest.

Youths have against all odds trooped to the streets to register their grievances over the current cost of living crisis in the country.

While some have yielded to the pleas of the government and others not to protest, this has raised confusion amidst Nigerians.

The Inspector General of Police has asked all groups planning to protest to register with the police and provide relevant information.

Who Supports the Protest?

Peter Obi

The presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has endorsed the nationwide protest.

Young People

Young people have built support for the protest on social media using the hashtag “EndBadGovernanceinNigeria”.

Campaign Groups

Several campaign groups have declared plans to stage peaceful rallies.

Ordinary Nigerians

Organizers say ordinary Nigerians are at the heart of the movement, and accuse authorities of laying the groundwork for a possible crackdown.

Civil Society Groups

United Action Front of Civil Society groups have also stated that they are alarmed by the blame game and blackmail tactics currently being deployed by handlers of the president in trying to arm twist and intimidate Nigerians out of the protest.

Groups and Individuals Against the Protest causing confusion 

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)

CAN has asked Christians to boycott the protest, stating that genuine protests can be hijacked by hoodlums, causing harm to innocent citizens.

National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)

NANS has also advised students against participating in the protest, citing concerns about potential violence and destabilization.

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin

Senator Jibrin has appealed to the protest organizers to reconsider their decision, stating that the government is making efforts to address the country’s challenges.

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

Governor AbdulRazaq has asked Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu, stating that the administration is working to address the economic hardship.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun

Governor Abiodun has urged Nigerian youth not to participate in the protest, suggesting that dialogue with the government is a more constructive approach.

Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD)

The PTD branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has accused the protest organizers of being insensitive and opportunistic.

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