The nationwide protests against economic hardship and rising living costs have entered their second day, with demonstrations occurring across various cities in Nigeria.
These protests are scheduled to continue until Saturday, August 10, 2024, fueled by widespread frustration over the increasing cost of living and deteriorating economic conditions within the country.
Ibadan, Oyo State: Calm Returns
In Ibadan, Oyo State, normalcy seems to have been restored as commuters and residents resume their usual activities. On the first day of the protests, the city experienced a sit-at-home order which led to the closure of many businesses. However, by Friday, August 2, the situation had improved, and daily routines were returning to normal.
Ikeja Lagos: Popular Computer Village, Ikeja, Empty
In Lagos, the normally busy Computer Village in Ikeja is unusually empty today. The usually vibrant market area is now deserted as the protests continue to impact daily life in the city.
Abuja: ‘Hunger dey, hunger dey’; Tear Gas Deployed
In Abuja, a team of fully armed Nigerian Police used force to disperse a group of protesters near the Berger Bridge. The protesters, who were chanting ‘Hunger dey oo, hunger dey ooo’ (There’s hunger, there’s hunger), were met with tear gas. Passers-by and motorists expressed their discontent with the police's approach, accusing them of excessive force.
Earlier, an Abuja high court had restricted protesters to the MKO Abiola National Stadium, following a directive from Federal Capital Territory Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, issued on Thursday night. However, protest leaders claim they were not officially notified of the court order.
Alausa Lagos: Prayers Before Protest
In Alausa, Ikeja, protesters began their day with a prayer session before moving on to their demonstration. The gathering was marked by a solemn start before the protest activities commenced.
Abuja: Quiet on Day 2
On the second day of the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest, Abuja, the nation's capital, has seen a noticeable decrease in activity. The MKO Abiola Stadium and Eagle Square, which were active during the first day, are now deserted except for security forces and armored tanks. The Nigerian Army, police, and other security agencies are maintaining a strong presence in the city to prevent a repeat of the previous day’s events.
Katsina: Curfew Imposed, 50 Arrested
In Katsina, the State Police Command has enforced a 24-hour curfew on the Dutsinma Local Government Area and a 7pm to 7am curfew for the rest of the state. The curfew bans all forms of protests within the state. According to ASP Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, the Command spokesperson, over 50 suspects have been apprehended for vandalizing public and private properties. The Command has assured there are no fatalities resulting from police actions and has urged parents to keep a close watch on their children. They have also warned that violators of the curfew will face severe penalties.
Kaduna: Protester Arrested in Police Camouflage
In Kaduna, police have taken action against individuals who hijacked the protests to vandalize government and private properties. Among those arrested was a man wearing a police camouflage uniform. State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Ali Dabigi, has appealed to parents to discourage their children from engaging in violent activities and has assured that efforts to maintain law and order will continue.
As the nationwide protests continue, the first day saw 14 people killed, and curfews have been declared in Yobe, Kano, and Borno States.