The organisers of the recently concluded #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protests, which spanned from August 1 to 10, 2024, have unveiled plans for another nationwide demonstration in October.
The new protest, dubbed the “Fearless in October Protest,” aims to reiterate the protesters’ demands and address the deteriorating state of governance in Nigeria.
Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, disclosed the upcoming protest during a press briefing yesterday.
Adenola emphasized that the core demands of the protesters would remain unchanged unless new issues emerged, warranting additional demands.
“Yes. It is called the ‘Fearless in October Protest’. Our charter of demands stands as same. We will add more as the country decays further,” Adenola stated, highlighting the protesters’ commitment to holding the government accountable despite increasing challenges.
The initial #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protests saw widespread participation across Nigeria, including in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Despite significant resistance from government officials and efforts to prevent the demonstrations, the protests proceeded as planned. Participants voiced their dissatisfaction with the current state of governance and called for substantial reforms.
The protesters’ demands were comprehensive and included several key issues. They called for the abolition of the Senate arm of the National Assembly, advocating for a transition to a part-time legislative role for the House of Representatives.
Additionally, they demanded an increase in the minimum wage to N250,000, a reversal of fuel prices and electricity tariffs to pre-January 2023 levels, and the release and compensation of all #EndSARS and political detainees.
Regarding compliance with court orders from state governments that mandated protests be confined to designated points, Adenola expressed a firm stance against such restrictions. “We won’t accept the compliance,” he declared, reinforcing the protesters’ determination to exercise their right to protest freely.
Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has been actively involved in efforts to secure the release of individuals arrested during the recent protests.
Adeyanju confirmed that current efforts are focused on ensuring the release of these protesters, many of whom were scheduled to appear in court yesterday in Abuja. However, their court appearance has been postponed to today.
Adeyanju’s remarks came in the context of ongoing calls from protest organisers for the unconditional release of all detained individuals. The delay in court proceedings has only intensified the activists’ resolve to push for immediate and comprehensive changes.
As the October protest approaches, the organisers remain steadfast in their mission to address systemic issues and advocate for significant governance reforms.
The planned “Fearless in October Protest” underscores the continued discontent among Nigerian youths and their demand for a more accountable and responsive government.
