Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations turned Protest Day for thousands of frustrated Nigerians in Lagos, Abuja and other states in the nation.
They took to the streets, rallying against skyrocketing living and energy costs. The protests, under the banner of #FearlessInOctober, saw a massive outcry against inflation and economic policies many claim have crippled the nation and made living unbearable for its citizens.
Protesters are chanting for change, calling on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to reverse unpopular policies like the removal of petrol subsidies and increased electricity tariffs. This follows two months after the August #EndBadGovernance protests, both driven by widespread discontent among the youth.
Protesters in Abuja, gathered in Utako, waved flags and held banners reading slogans like “EndBadGovernance” and “EndHighLivingCosts,” echoing a shared frustration across the nation.
Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, was brought to a halt as protesters besieged the famous Ikeja UnderBridge. With signs reading “Hunger Dey” and “Reverse Neoliberal Policies,” demonstrators blocked roads, leaving vehicular movement in gridlock on what was supposed to be a day of national pride.
The air was charged with a mix of defiance and desperation as Nigerians from all walks of life united to demand relief from the crushing economic conditions. The message was clear: the people have had enough.
Among the protestors in Lagos was prominent activist Omoyele Sowore, leading the crowd as they marched toward Gani Fawehinmi Park. With security forces maintaining a close but cautious distance, protests spread beyond Lagos and Abuja to various states, despite warnings from the government.
President Tinubu, in his Independence Day speech, urged for patience, acknowledging the strain caused by his economic reforms.
He promised that efforts were underway to ease the burden on Nigerians, but for many on the streets, the cry for immediate relief couldn’t be louder.
