End Bad Governance: Protest Breaks Out in Lagos Over Hardship and Insecurity

Hundreds of protesters staged a fresh #EndBadGovernance protest in Lagos on Friday, capitalizing on the Democracy Day period to make a case for immediate government intervention in the areas of economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and the escalating cost of living.

The protest attracted activists, civil society organisations and concerned Nigerians who marched peacefully through parts of the city, holding placards with inscriptions such as “Free All Captives Now,” “End Anti-People Policies Now,” and “For a Living Wage and Mass Creation of Employment.”

Participants expressed concern over the worsening economic situation in the country and called on the government to take decisive steps to address the challenges faced by citizens.

The protest was held against the backdrop of recent mass abductions reported in Oyo and Borno States and rising public frustration over rising cost of living and economic hardship.

The protesters also pointed out the impact of inflation, rising transportation fares and declining purchasing power on the average Nigerians, calling for policies that will reduce the burden on the people.

Prominent human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has joined calls for improved governance, enhanced security and economic reforms aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

Earlier, Falana had joined some civil society groups to announce June 12 as a day of nationwide protests, citing issues of pervasive insecurity, hunger and the economic challenges facing millions of Nigerians.

Security agencies were also deployed to monitor the protest and maintain law and order during the exercise.

Meanwhile, a group of demonstrators also showed up at the venue to support the Federal Government’s economic and policy reforms.

Pro-government supporters marched with banners carrying messages such as “Better Days Ahead for Nigeria”, asking Nigerians to be patient and allow the reforms to produce positive results.

The group said the policies the government is putting in place are aimed at repositioning the economy for long-term recovery, stability and sustainable growth.