Public Protests in Nigeria: Mixed Reactions and Calls for Calm

There’s a lot happening in Nigeria as several groups prepare for nationwide protests starting on August 1, 2024, to express frustration over economic hardships. However, some organizations are backing out, urging calm instead.

On one side, we have the Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Minister of Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri, who appeal for peace and restraint during these tough times. They believe talking it out is the way to go, rather than taking to the streets.

However, the Take It Back Group is determined to continue with the protests. They’re calling on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to provide a proper venue for them at the Eagle Square, emphasizing their right to express their concerns actively.

It seems like the pressure is easing on the protest movement, with various civil society groups pulling back. Notably, The League of Yoruba Youths for Advocacy and Good Governance, representing a whopping 55 million people, has decided to withdraw after meeting with fellow leaders.

In a similar vein, the Kaduna Concerned Group has also opted out, criticizing the protests for lacking a clear direction. They insist on cooperating with the government as they wait for improvement.

The East isn’t left out, with the Enugu Innovative Youths expressing concern over potential security risks echoing the chaos of the ENDSARS protests. They’re advocating for patience and stability in their region.

SOKAPU has also voiced their disapproval of the planned protests, highlighting the security progress made and emphasizing that it’s not the right time for public demonstrations.

Add to that, the Women Affairs Minister and former militant, Asari Dokubo, alongside other women leaders, are rallying against the protests, advocating for support rather than strife.

Even labor unions in Bauchi are steering clear of the protests, with their leaders stating they prefer dialogue over demonstrations. They urge people to think twice before taking to the streets.

Amid all this, human rights lawyer Ebun Adegboruwa is pushing for police support to ensure safety during the planned rallies, emphasizing their lawful right to protest.

Meanwhile, the Northern Christian Association (Northern CAN) is speaking up about the protests, seeing it as a sign of despair over the country’s economic state. They’ve urged the government, led by Bola Tinubu, to take responsibility and address the rising living costs and food insecurity.

In a twist, they assert that dismissing the protests as merely the work of opposition groups undermines the genuine struggles of regular Nigerians who are tired of just getting by.

As public sentiment grows around the upcoming protests, it’s evident that many Nigerians are feeling the heat from soaring prices and stagnant economic opportunities. The coming days will surely be telling of how this situation unfolds.