•Youth Activists Mobilize Against Economic Hardship as Government Plans Minimal Observance
As Nigeria prepares for a low-key celebration of its 64th Independence Day, the Federal Government is met with an escalating wave of protests led by youth activists demanding urgent economic reforms.
The “FearlessInOctober” movement aims to address widespread dissatisfaction with the soaring cost of living and fuel prices, which activists argue have made life increasingly unbearable for Nigerians.
In a statement released by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the administration acknowledged the current economic climate, stating, “President Tinubu’s government is aware of and sympathizes with all Nigerians over the economic conditions they are passing through.”
This sentiment has not deterred the protest organizers, who view the Independence Day observance as a prime opportunity to voice their grievances against the government’s policies.
The National Bureau of Statistics recently reported alarming inflation rates, with the price of essential food items such as beans and rice skyrocketing.
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In August 2024, the price of beans surged by 271.55% year-on-year, reaching N2,574.63 per kilogram. Similarly, local rice prices increased by 148.41% during the same period, now averaging N1,831.05 per kilogram. Many families struggle to cope as the price of a 50kg bag of rice nears N100,000.
Activist groups, including the Education Rights Campaign and the Movement for Fundamental Change, are calling for peaceful demonstrations on October 1, urging citizens to stand against what they describe as “anti-poor policies.” A joint statement from these organizations emphasized, “As we speak, the price of fuel hovers between N900 per litre to N1,900 per litre depending on which parts of the country you are.”
Despite warnings from security agencies, including the Lagos State Police and the Department of State Services, the protest organizers remain resolute.
“The security agencies are aware that there will be a nationwide action and they have a duty to protect protesters and non-protesters,” said prominent activist Omoyele Sowore.
He criticized the government’s failure to address demands raised during earlier protests in August, which ended in violence and loss of life.
READ ALSO: Zero Tariff Waiver: Nigerians Groan Under Rising Cost of Living As FG Fails to Implement Relief Measure
The recent surge in unrest follows reports of casualties during prior protests, with 30 people killed across seven states according to Beacon Security Intelligence.
This backdrop of tension has only intensified calls for accountability and government action.
In light of these developments, the police have pledged to maintain order during the planned protests, assuring residents of their commitment to safety. However, organizers maintain that the government must listen to the people’s plight. Activist Jerome Williams remarked, “It is not like anybody wants to protest; they are the ones pushing us to do it.”
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