Nigeria is currently at the forefront of a distinctive protest movement, with the nation preparing for nationwide demonstrations scheduled to commence on August 1st. In the past week, there have been pro-government demonstrators who have taken to the streets, holding banners with a contradictory message: “No To Protests.” The rallies have ignited a complex debate about the nature and power of peaceful protest in a democratic society. Many view them as a last-ditch effort by supporters of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The protests in support of the government, which prominently display the names of all Nigerian states, have become the source of intense debate. While the intent appears to be a call for calm and stability, the irony of protesting against protests has not been lost on observers. These demonstrations inadvertently affirm the efficacy and importance of peaceful protests, according to critics. The pro-government demonstrators bring attention to a fundamental democratic right—the freedom to protest—by expressing their discontent.
The upcoming anti-government protests in Nigeria have created a palpable tension in the atmosphere starting with warnings from the country’s president. Concerns about potential crackdowns have been heightened by recent statements from senior government officials and security agencies. Officials have characterised the upcoming protests as politically motivated and unnecessary, cautioning about potential dire consequences. The Department of State Services (DSS) has made serious allegations against the organisers, claiming that their intentions are to disrupt the government and provoke unrest. They have even suggested that these protests may be a precursor to a potential change in leadership. In a similar vein, the military has expressed grave concerns about the potential for anarchy and has made a firm commitment to proactively uphold law and order. The police have expressed their concerns, warning that the demonstrations may be used as a cover for violent acts.
These statements are concerning, particularly given Nigeria’s recent experience with peaceful demonstrations. The October 2020 #EndSARS protests, demanding an end to police brutality, were met with a brutal response from security forces, leading to the tragic loss of at least 12 unarmed protesters. The memory of the brutal crackdown lingers, casting a dark cloud over the current situation. The significance of the incident was highlighted by a recent ruling from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court, which determined that the Nigerian government had infringed upon the rights of the #EndSARS protesters.
The upcoming protests, which have gained traction on social media, are inspired by recent demonstrations in Kenya. The citizens expressed their opposition to increased taxes on essential goods by taking to the streets, and their demands for government reform grew louder as the protests continued. Nigeria is currently facing its most severe cost of living crisis in almost thirty years. The country is grappling with an inflation rate of 34.19% and food inflation that has surpassed 40%. It appears that Nigeria may be heading towards a similar situation. The planned protests seek to tackle economic hardships and systemic issues like corruption.
It is of utmost importance for the Nigerian government to prioritise the protection of its citizens’ rights in the midst of these challenges. Instead of suppressing opposing views, authorities should prioritise addressing the valid concerns that are fuelling the protests. It is crucial to prioritise the safety and peacefulness of demonstrations, as this not only upholds fundamental rights but also paves the way for meaningful dialogue and reform.
