The “End Hunger” protest, organized by the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria committee, is set to continue its efforts at Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos, despite an address from President Bola Tinubu. In a statement issued by Hassan Taiwo, Ayoyinka Oni, and Adegboyega Adeniji, the organizing committee expressed their disappointment that it took three days of protest for the President to acknowledge the movement.
President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on Sunday conveyed his administration’s willingness to listen to the protesters’ grievances and called for suspension of the protests (#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria) to allow for dialogue. However, the organizers view this move with skepticism. They perceive it as inconsistent to ask for dialogue while simultaneously asking for the cessation of protests, which they argue is fundamental to achieving their cause. The President’s call to halt the demonstration is seen as contradictory, as it seems to offer reconciliation while applying pressure.
The statement from the organizers highlights that the protests signify a critical victory for their movement, attributing the President’s address to their determined efforts. They emphasized that the protests have showcased that the public’s collective voice holds substantial weight against governmental authority. Despite acknowledging Tinubu’s gesture for dialogue, the committee remains wary, citing incidents of violence against demonstrators by thugs. Such occurrences include attacks during a peaceful Sunday gathering and an incident where a protester was assaulted during a live interview.
The organizers called upon key societal institutions like the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, the media, and the Nigerian Bar Association to support their cause and not remain passive. They claim that the ongoing protests stem from widespread suffering and frustration among Nigerian youth and ordinary citizens. The planned continuation of the protests on Monday, August 5, 2024, signals an enduring commitment to advocating for significant changes and improvements in governance.
In essence, the protestors demand persistent public engagement and support to ensure that their message does not get sidelined and that the government addresses their concerns earnestly.
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