The court, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, dismissed the ex parte motion filed by Danladi Goje, Buky Abayomi, Adiza Abbo, and 13 other Nigerian citizens. This type of motion, which allows a party to seek relief without prior notice to the other side, aimed to halt the protests and prevent further disruption.

The applicants targeted various organisations involved in the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests, including the Take It Back Movement, Concerned Nigerians, and Nigerians Against Hunger, among others. They also sought to restrain a wide range of individuals and groups, including Omoyele Sowore and the Social Democratic Party, pointing to violations of fundamental rights such as life, liberty, and economic stability due to the protests.

The petitioners’ legal representative, Tsembelee Sorkaa, argued that the ongoing protests posed a risk to public order and personal safety, drawing parallels with the #EndSARS protests of 2020, which had led to unrest and property damage. 

Sorkaa requested that the court issue a restraining order and direct security forces to enforce it. Again, he sought permission for substituted service, suggesting that the respondents be notified via national newspapers due to difficulties in serving them directly.

During the hearing, Justice Lifu commented on the lack of supporting affidavit and questioned the necessity of an urgent restraining order, given that the protests had concluded the previous week. The judge also noted the absence of evidence indicating that the protests would resume in the near future. Consequently, Justice Lifu deemed the application unsubstantiated and lacking in merit, leading to its dismissal.

The court has rescheduled the next hearing on the related motion for August 29, 2024. Despite the court’s decision, protest leaders have disclosed plans to renew the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests on October 1, 2024, continuing their push for improved governance in Nigeria. The recent protests had garnered international attention, prompting advisories from foreign governments and leading to security measures in several Nigerian states.

Initially a peaceful drive for change, the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests were taken over by looting, destruction, and allegations of extra-judicial killings by security forces in some states. The images of protesters waving Russian flags and President Tinubu’s public addresses, which came twice in a single week, also impacted the protests. 

But away from the immediate issues, what lessons should the government take away from these events, and have they learned them?

Human rights lawyer, Monday Ubani, speaking to BBC News, stated that the looting, destruction of properties, and attacks that followed gave the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests a different and unintended meaning. He explained that it overshadowed the initial purpose and diverted attention from the core issues of governance and accountability that the protesters were raising.

This change in perception may have allowed the government to sidestep the protest’s core demands by focusing on the chaos rather than the cause.

The protests, which began as a response to economic hardship and corruption, were a clarion call for reducing the cost of governance — one of the central issues of the movement, which had 10 demands. Yet, despite these, the government’s response has so far been tepid. 

“I Can’t Afford Data for My 13 Year-Old Son Learning Programming”, Protester’s Comment Breaks the Internet

The one million-man march planned by the leaders of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests was meant to be a concluding event, a final push to make their voices heard. However, it flopped across the country due to low turnout, with many protesters shunning their usual meeting points, now occupied by security agents. 

The heavy deployment of security operatives, coupled with roadblocks across cities, effectively suppressed the movement, raising questions about the state’s willingness to engage with its citizens’ concerns.

This low turnout and the heavy-handed security response is one lesson that remains unlearned by the Nigerian government: 

1. The Importance of Engaging with the Populace Rather than Suppressing Dissent

The protests were not just about immediate economic issues; they were a commentary on the inefficiencies and excesses of the Nigerian government. The call to cut down on the cost of governance is not a new one. It has stayed through the corridors of power for years, yet little has changed. 

The bloated government structure, with its numerous aides, advisers, and ministries, continues to drain resources that could be better spent on public services. These include allocated N21 billion for renovating the Vice President’s residence, N70 billion for SUVs for National Assembly members, and N5 billion for the presidential fleet. Additionally, N1.5 billion was spent on cars for Senator Oluremi Tinubu, despite the Constitution not recognising the First Lady’s office. Senators’ salaries were increased to N21 million monthly, and a N15 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project was controversially awarded to Gilbert Chagoury.

The government’s response to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests has been emblematic of a larger issue: the disconnect between the rulers and the ruled. Instead of addressing the root causes of the protests, the focus has been on quelling them. This approach increases the existing trust issues and also sets the stage for future unrest. 

The parallels with Kenya’s recent protests are instructive. In response to similar economic challenges, the Kenyan government has taken steps to address the underlying issues, such as initiating public consultations and reducing government spending. Nigeria, on the other hand, appears to be doubling down on the very practices that caused the protests.

2. The Need for Transparent and Inclusive Governance

One of the key lessons that remains unlearned is the necessity for transparent and inclusive governance. The lack of transparency in government dealings, from budget allocations to contract awards, has long led to public mistrust. 

The protests highlighted the growing issues among Nigerians over the opaque nature of governance, where decisions that impact millions are made behind closed doors with little to no input from the public. The government’s failure to open channels for meaningful dialogue with protesters during the unrest is indicative of an unwillingness to engage with citizens. If the government continues to ignore calls for transparency and inclusivity, it risks further alienating the very people it is meant to serve.

3. Addressing the Root Causes of Economic Hardship

The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests were, at the core, a response to economic hardship. The high cost of living, unemployment, and lack of economic opportunities have left many Nigerians feeling hopeless. While the government has often resorted to temporary measures, such as palliative programs or fuel subsidies, these band-aid solutions do not address the root causes of economic hardship. 

Structural reforms aimed at improving economic diversification, boosting job creation, and ensuring equitable distribution of resources are essential. The failure to address these underlying economic issues will only perpetuate the cycle of poverty and discontent, leading to more protests in the future.

4. The Importance of Accountability

Another lesson that remains unlearned is the importance of accountability in governance. The protesters’ demands for accountability and reforms were clear, those in power must be held responsible for their actions. This includes not just political leaders but also security forces who are often accused of human rights violations with impunity. 

The alleged extra-judicial killings during the protests speak on the urgent need for accountability within the security apparatus. However, without meaningful investigations and consequences for those responsible, the culture of impunity will continue. The government needs to show a commitment to accountability by ensuring that all those who violate the rights of citizens, regardless of their position, are brought to justice.

5. The Power of Civic Engagement and Youth Mobilisation

The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests were driven largely by young Nigerians who are increasingly disillusioned with the status quo. This mobilisation of youth is a powerful force that the government cannot afford to ignore. Yet, instead of leveraging this energy for positive change, the government’s response has often been to suppress and discredit youth-led movements. 

The lesson here is that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers of today. Engaging with youth and incorporating their perspectives into policy-making is important for building a more inclusive and forward-looking Nigeria. The government’s failure to recognise and support the role of youth in governance will only widen the generational divide and limit progress.

6. The Necessity of Political Reforms

Finally, the protests pointed out the imminent need for political reforms in Nigeria. The current political system, characterised by entrenched patronage networks and a lack of genuine representation, is a barrier to good governance. Protesters have called for reforms that would make the political process more inclusive, transparent, and accountable. 

These include measures to curb electoral malpractice, reduce the influence of money in politics, and ensure that political officeholders are truly representative of their constituents. Without these reforms, the cycle of bad governance will continue, and the aspirations of millions of Nigerians for a better future will remain unfulfilled.

President William Ruto Withdraws 2024 Finance Bill Following Protests

A Synopsis of the Kenyan Protest: Can Nigeria Learn from its Response Mechanism?

The Kenyan protests were triggered by controversial tax hikes in the Finance Bill 2024, beginning on June 18, 2024. Initially peaceful, the protests turned violent on June 25 when demonstrators stormed parliament, leading to clashes with police that resulted in 39 reported deaths by June 26.

The bill, which included unpopular measures like increased VAT on essentials, sparked widespread discontent. On June 26, President Ruto agreed to shelve the bill, but protests continued, with a “national vigil” planned for July 7. The unrest, driven largely by young Kenyans via social media, reflects broader grievances about economic hardship and government insensitivity.

The word “protest” is derived from the Latin “protestari,” meaning “to declare publicly.” Throughout history, protests have been a powerful force for change, as seen in the Protestant Reformation, the French Revolution, and the American Civil Rights Movement. These examples highlight how public objection can drive societal transformation, a fact that remains true today as seen in movements like the Arab Spring and global climate strikes.

In Nigeria, protests have also shaped the course of history. The 1929 Aba Women’s Riot challenged British colonial exploitation, and the 1947 Abeokuta protest, led by Mrs. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, opposed economic hardships and political marginalization. The 1978 “Ali Must Go” protest erupted over increased school fees and economic mismanagement. More recently, the #EndSARS movement in 2020 demanded an end to police brutality and sparked widespread support, both domestically and internationally. These protests reflect Nigeria’s ongoing quest for justice and reform.

How the Kenyan Government Responded to Protesters’ Demands

In response to the recent protests, the Kenyan government initially took short-term measures such as shelving the contentious Finance Bill 2024 on June 26, deploying heavy police action, and promising dialogue with protesters. Despite these efforts, the use of force and the abduction of activists drew significant criticism. For long-term stability, the government will need to address broader issues like enhancing transparency, reducing corruption, and re-evaluating economic policies that affect the cost of living. Additionally, fostering meaningful engagement with youth and reforming police practices will be essential in addressing the root causes of unrest and preventing future conflicts.

Similar Problems, Different Approaches: The Case of Nigeria’s #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests

Robert Nesta Marley, in his 1980 classic “Zimbabwe,” noted that “every man has a right to decide his own destiny, and in this judgment, there is no partiality.” His lyrics resonate with the situations in Kenya and Nigeria, where both nations have witnessed protests sparked by economic hardship and demands for better governance.

Just as Ruto rose to power on the promise of good governance, Nigeria’s president also promised to understand the nation’s challenges and even published a blueprint to address them. However, despite these promises, the outcomes have fallen short. A comparison of current policies with the living conditions of Nigerians reveals the gap between intention and reality, echoing Amartya Sen’s ideas in Development as Freedom.

While Kenyan youth have shown a more aggressive and determined approach to protest, Nigeria’s response has been more controlled and less impactful. The Nigerian government’s reaction to protests has often involved monitoring, censorship, and minimal concessions, leaving many of the root causes unaddressed.

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests: Our “Kobo” Advice, If They Will Listen

While Mahatma Gandhi’s principle that “an eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind” holds true, it is imperative for the Nigerian government to re-examine its policy-making processes. Deliberate efforts should be made to see issues from the people’s perspective.

Policymaking should include pluralism, where multiple interest groups influence decisions, and emphasise democratic accountability. If the demands of the #EndBadGovernance movement cannot be addressed immediately, critical and people-centred decisions should be taken to present the government in a positive light. Leaders must recognise the public’s right to accountability, feedback, and involvement in matters that affect them.

Nigeria’s citizenry is highly educated and informed. Engaging the people to ascertain what is best for them is not just advisable—it is essential. We urge the government to engage citizens further, address challenges without bias, and avoid decisions driven by ethnic or political affiliations.

The common man has borne the brunt of poor governance for too long. We hope this awakening will not bring out the worst in Nigerians—lead well!

The lessons are clear, but the question remains: is the government willing to learn them?

While the President attempted to convey empathy and address the pressing issues facing the nation, many Nigerians felt his words fell short of addressing their genuine concerns.

President Tinubu’s Speech: A Disconnect?

In his speech, President Tinubu highlighted various initiatives, including oil production, foreign direct investments, and the compressed natural gas (CNG) initiative. However, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party gubernatorial candidate for Lagos State, described the address as a “flaccid attempt at empathy,” stating that the administration is trapped in its propaganda. Speaking to Arise TV, Rhodes-Vivour mentioned the lack of concrete action plans and tangible solutions.

Dr Folaseye said: “I listened 3 times to see if I missed anything and I realised your president Tinubu did not address a single demand of the protesters.”

Despite the government’s mention of progress, the issue of inflation surge makes lots say otherwise. Reaching 34.19% in June 2024, high costs are driven by high food prices and energy costs. 

In President Tinubu’s speech, he addressed employment initiatives through several programs aimed at supporting youth and stimulating job creation. These included the establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation with over N200 billion to help Nigerians acquire essential products without immediate cash payments, which he said would reduce corruption and create ease for millions of households. 

He also mentioned the 3 Million Technical Talents scheme under the Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) program, aimed at creating IT and technical jobs. The Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP) were introduced as part of his administration’s initiatives to enable young people and create employment opportunities.

As seen in the disruption of Kano ICT Park, however, the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing Nigeria’s high unemployment rate depends on resolving the root problems such as insecurity, lack of food and education, inadequate infrastructure, and economic instability that continue to hinder job creation efforts. 

As of the latest data, Nigeria’s unemployment rate is counting in mllions​, with more than 40% of the population living below the poverty line. While these programs look good at addressing employment, their capacity to greatly reduce unemployment depends on successful implementation, scalability, and the ability to match the skills provided with the needs of the job market.

Social media platforms have been hot on this topic, with citizens feeling the President’s address did not adequately address the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests demands. 

Anonymous NG said the speech failed to address key demands such as the arrest of officers responsible for killing protesters, reducing government costs, and reversing education and fuel subsidy cuts. Instead, it highlighted unverifiable achievements, leading to further outrage among the people.

Responses that followed pointed out the absence of discussion on issues such as refineries and the transmission of election votes, while another noted the lack of mention of insecurity affecting farmers. 

“Nothing about refineries or IREV transmission of election votes. Only paragraph 30 which is on agriculture makes sense. But it’s just a promise. Imagine talking about housing in Abuja where about 60% of the estates are empty. Mtchew”

“Neither did he mention insecurity which is preventing our farmers from going to their farm”

Inibehe Effiong described the speech as “a pack of empty words” and “a time-wasting load of irrelevancies.” He pointed out the political class for being “intentionally deaf and willfully blind” to the sufferings of Nigerians. He stated that President Tinubu is disconnected from the realities of everyday Nigerians, living in an “imaginary Nigeria.”

Effiong further noted that the President failed to address specific demands, such as electoral reform and reversing economic policies. The speech was seen as ignoring the needs of the masses and offering no concessions or credible dialogue mechanisms.

Inibehe Effiong described the address as a collection of empty words, highlighting the disconnect between the administration and the lived realities of Nigerians. 

The responses that followed included accusations of the President of obfuscating real issues and failing to understand the seriousness of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests. There were calls for renewed mobilisation and demands for a more direct engagement with the President, including suggestions for a press conference titled “One on One with Tinubu.”

“Very adeptly ignored the specific demands of the people and generalised it in a way that obfuscated the real issue,” a user wrote.

“President Tinubu doesn’t think that we are serious. He is obviously looking down on us the masses.

From Monday, we shall mobilise massively and speak in the loudest voices.”

“This speech is very embarrassing, insensitive to the plight of suffering & hungry Nigerians.

If the Nigerian people demanding End to Bad Governance in Nigeria withdraws because of this speech, then all the good efforts made in the past 3 days & the fallen heroes amount to nothing.”

“It’s uncalled for I think there is need for a press conference tagged 

One on one with Tinubu!!!!!!!!”

The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests demands, such as reducing fuel prices, improving security, and implementing electoral reforms, contrast with the government’s speech on economic recovery. 

The emphasis on long-term economic policies does not align with the immediate needs of Nigerians struggling with inflation, unemployment, and insecurity. This disconnect makes more visible the challenge for the government in bridging the gap between policy pronouncements and tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

Same Old Stories!!! But for How Long Shall We Continue

Nigeria’s economy reportedly suffered a loss of over ₦500 billion in just one day. This massive economic blow is attributed to the widespread disruption of business activities, the imposition of curfews in several states, and the general atmosphere of instability that has gripped the nation.

Again, in the last 72 hours or so, goods worth no less than ₦6 million were affected. The Nigeria Police Force also noted that it arrested at least 681 protesters, excluding journalists.

According to NPF records, 44 people were arrested in Abuja, 17 in Gombe, 75 in Jigawa, 24 in Kaduna, 326 in Kano, 7 in Katsina, 50 in Nasarawa, and 81 in Sokoto.

People seem to be tired of old fables that do not bring practical, measurable, and clear-cut results. The leadership has spoken, and all we can do for now is expect action-oriented results.

There have been various ideas regarding the presidential speech. The overall summation is that President Tinubu’s address neither takes into account the demands of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests nor provides a clear path to the future the nation or her citizens envision.

But what are the demands of the protesters, and by extension, the masses? A cut in the size of government, a return of the petrol subsidy regime, food security, fiscal discipline, government intervention in the skyrocketing price of goods and services, and an end to insecurity, among others.

A close look at the Presidential address seems not to touch on these critical issues specifically, nor does it appear that the masses are pleased with the government’s response.

For us, what led to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests is a set of interconnected issues the government seems to be neglecting, such as the insecurity challenge and its effects on agriculture and the economy at large.

According to a report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), prices of food and basic items have skyrocketed, hitting over 250% in one year. Data from the latest Food Price Watch from the NBS showed that the price of beans soared by 252% between June 2023 and June 2024.

The prices of major staple foods in Nigeria, such as beans, yam, potato, plantain, and tomato, rose by over 250% in the last year. A year-on-year comparative analysis indicates the average price of 1 kg of brown beans stood at ₦2,292.76, representing a 252.13% increase from ₦651.12 in June 2023 and a 14.11% increase month-on-month from ₦2,009.23 in May 2024.

Tomatoes also saw significant price increases, rising by 320.67% year-on-year from ₦547.28 in June 2023 to ₦2,302.26 in June 2024. On a month-on-month basis, the average price of tomatoes increased by 55.59% from ₦1,479.69 in May 2024. There are more alarming data and figures depicting how our naira is becoming useless, thereby reducing the purchasing power of the masses.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s insecurity challenge has grown beyond the activities of Boko Haram into a hydra-headed monster that is chronic in many areas, exacerbated by rising inflation and worsening unemployment.

Nigeria is currently dealing with a variety of security issues, including banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder clashes, livestock rustling, separatist agitations, and the continuous insurgency of Boko Haram. The situation has deteriorated substantially, with most incidents occurring in the middle belt and northern Nigeria, which represent the country’s farming belt.

But what has been the response to this challenge? We leave you to provide suitable answers, but what is evident is that if appropriate, not cosmetic, action had been taken, we would have breathed a sigh of relief by now. Instead, we are grateful and count as an achievement the reception of 25,000 tonnes of wheat from war-torn Ukraine and the removal of stamp duty on food for some months.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s wheat production has been so dismal that for a decade, the country only managed to produce about two percent of all the wheat it consumed.

At approximately 2.5 million metric tons, Nigerian wheat production is not great for a country that prides itself as Africa’s giant. For comparison, Pakistan is the eighth largest wheat-producing country in the world, with an annual production of around 24 million metric tons. Nigeria doesn’t even make it into the first 20 largest wheat-producing countries in the world.

Another central issue akin to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests demands is the removal of the fuel subsidy and its unquantifiable effect on the masses. While the government has proven to the masses that the years of “Father Christmas” are gone, Nigerians have yet to see in practical terms the benefits of these reforms, which seem like waiting in vain.

While the debate over the subsidy has been laid to rest, it is public knowledge with evidence that it has found its way back into the economy. So, “who is fooling who?”

We must also mention the fact that the masses seem unclear about why they must bear the brunt of the challenges and reforms bedevilling the economy at all times. Leadership is supposed to be by example, in practical terms.

If this is so, the extremely expensive democracy we operate as a country needs to be interrogated. The undefined personal assistants with unspecified job descriptions and advisers to advisers must go. These, among others, may convince the masses that we are on the path to success as a nation.

Our “Kobo” Advice

We appeal to the government to return to the fundamentals of policymaking, emphasising immediate and remote measures. All that has been seen thus far seems futuristic and looks good, but with many gaps in reality and sometimes skewness towards policy somersault.

The masses deserve to see the price of garri, rice, beans, nkwobi, ekpang nkukwo, tuwo shinkafa, vegetable soup, and ogbono soup reduced drastically. We also demand an end to long queues in our respective filling stations and a more practical approach to addressing insecurity, inflation, and other teething problems staring us in the face.

Nigeria Shall Succeed!

Tijani took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the aftermath of the attack, sharing a video of a recent #3MTT Hackathon held in Kano and reaffirming his commitment to the region’s tech talent leveraging the Kano ICT Park.

“To our @3MTTNigeria community and all the amazing young talent in #Kano, your dreams are valid! This was just a few weeks ago at our #3MTT Hackathon in Kano,” Tijani wrote.

He further stated, “We are already getting support to make sure the park is renovated for your use.” This affirmation aims to reassure local youth and stakeholders that the destruction will not impede the future plans for the Kano ICT Park, which was intended to enhance digital innovation and job creation in the northwest.

The incident, which occurred during the widespread #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests demanding better governance, has drawn attention to the need for heightened security measures around such essential infrastructure. 

While the NCC has yet to provide a detailed response or timeline for the park’s restoration, Tijani’s pledge to revitalise the facility is a positive step towards sustaining the momentum for technological advancement in Kano.

Among the thousands of voices raised in unison for better governance and improved living conditions, Ogwu Benjamin Chidioke, a determined protestor cycled from Festac to Ikeja to join the protests.

The father of a 13-year-old programming prodigy took to the streets on a bicycle to voice his frustrations, driven by a desperate appeal for the future of his son, Goodluck Benjamin. 

A growing programmer at just 13, young Goodluck’s prospects are being suppressed by the difficult economic situation facing the nation.

“I can’t even buy data for him to learn more,” Chidioke lamented. “I can’t even pay for his tuition fee, millions of naira. At 13, he can programme a game.”

The father’s sacrifice shows the depth of the crisis facing many Nigerians, unable to feed or even afford basic necessities. This is coupled with the recent tuition fees raised by over 100% across Universities. 

Many are unable to fend for their education and fearing for their future, like Chidioke, they have made the difficult decision to join the protests, risking their own safety.

“I rather die on the street than die at home,” Chidioke stated. “I can’t sit down and watch the future of my son go to waste. I know I may not have a future again in Nigeria, but my son’s future will not waste.”

Nigerians are willing to go to any length to secure a better future. Despite the talents of many, access to the necessary resources for further growth and skill is a far cry. 

The EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest, which have gained momentum nationwide, are a reaction to the perceived failures in governance and the resulting economic hardships that have left many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet. 

The protesters are demanding systemic changes that will create opportunities for a better standard of living and ensure that the next generation has a chance at a brighter future.

The#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest has seen a diverse group of participants, from young students and professionals to older citizens and entire families, all unified and crying out for change. 

The government’s response to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest has been varied, with some regions experiencing clashes between protestors and security forces, while others have seen peaceful demonstrations.

The urgency felt by many Nigerians is high and determination of individuals like Chidioke, who are willing to fight for their children’s future, adds a deeply personal dimension to the national movement for change.

The government is faced with the challenge of addressing these widespread grievances and implementing reforms that can restore public assurance. 

In the meantime, we hope for a better tomorrow for our children and generations to come. 

The ICT Park, which is intended to serve as a hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship in the northwest, was slated to be inaugurated next week.

Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, expressed his dismay over the incident on X (formerly Twitter).

He wrote, “Sad to learn that our Digital Innovation Park in Kano slated for launch next week to support our technical talent accelerator (3MTT) has been set ablaze and looted by protesters. Alongside #3MTT, this building is set to host our buildathon holiday maker programme for secondary school kids starting next week. A slight setback for our journey to deepening our workforce for technology while creating job opportunities for the youth. Millions of Naira down the drain.”

The Kano ICT Park was designed to include laboratories for ICT innovations and commercial hubs to provide capacity building for ICT startups and enhance entrepreneurial activities. It was expected to support the growth of technology talent and create job opportunities in the region.

In response to Tijani’s comment, individuals argue that prioritising human development should take precedence over infrastructure projects like flyovers and buildings. They highlight the irony of focusing on advancements like AI in a country where over 65% of the population is illiterate and more than 13 million children are out of school.

Nonetheless, NCC has yet to comment on the damage to the park or the impact on the scheduled programs. The loss of equipment and infrastructure will greatly affect the planned activities and the future of tech innovation in the area.

Individuals also raise questions about the security measures in place to protect these infrastructure, especially those meant to facilitate development and innovation. The local authorities are reportedly investigating the attack and are expected to increase security around key facilities in the region.

This protest comes despite appeals from government officials, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has called for patience and dialogue in addressing the nation’s challenges.

In a statement delivered yesterday, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Lagosians to consider the broader implications of the protests, reflecting on the events of the #EndSARS movement in 2020. 

He warned that while protests may begin peacefully, they are vulnerable to being hijacked by elements with “devilish intentions,” potentially leading to chaos and destruction.

“Is protest the practical catalyst for progress the nation requires at this time?” Governor Sanwo-Olu asked. “Will such a protest suddenly ensure that all of our challenges disappear in ten days?” 

He stated that economic reforms currently underway require time to yield results, and he cautioned against allowing protests to disrupt the modest gains already achieved.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted recent government initiatives, including President Bola Tinubu’s signing of a new minimum wage law and the disbursement of student loans aimed at alleviating financial burdens. He also noted the financial autonomy granted to local governments and efforts to stabilise the foreign exchange crisis as signs of progress.

“We need patience for the benefits of these economic reforms to blossom,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Protests can’t achieve in days what economic reforms can in weeks and months. Our nation, under President Tinubu’s courageous leadership, is on the right path.”

To mitigate the impact of economic reforms, Sanwo-Olu outlined Lagos-specific programs under the EKOCARES initiative. These include reduced transportation costs, free medical care, and increased bursaries and scholarships for students. He reassured Lagosians that the government is committed to improving living standards.

Reflecting on the destructive aftermath of the 2020 protests, Sanwo-Olu recounted the damage to essential infrastructure, including the Lagos High Court and numerous police stations. “No true Lagosian or friend of Lagos will encourage us to go this route again,” he asserted.

To ensure safety during the current #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests, the governor announced that the Police have designated Gani Fawehinmi Park and Peace Park as official protest venues in Lagos. He encouraged protesters to utilise these secured locations to prevent chaos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of dialogue and collaboration in addressing grievances. “Our strength lies in our unity, and our future depends on our collective efforts to maintain peace and stability,” he said, urging citizens to reject violence and disorder.

The focus remains on balancing the right to protest with the need for constructive engagement.

Government officials continue to advocate for a peaceful approach to resolving national issues, hoping to steer the country toward lasting stability and prosperity.