Lagos, Nigeria — On Thursday morning, a wave of discontent swept through Lagos as thousands of Nigerians took to the streets in protest against the rising cost of living and alleged poor governance. The demonstrations, which started in Ikeja, quickly grew as protesters, including 20-year-old Samuel Adeleke, rallied with signs denouncing high food prices and economic hardships.
As the crowd moved towards Ojota, where a major demonstration was planned, the number of protesters surged to several thousand. Under the banner of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, the movement calls for a 10-day-long protest addressing governance failures, corruption, and the soaring cost of living. Organizers have outlined 19 specific demands for the government.
In response to the unrest, authorities in Kano and Yobe states imposed curfews following reports of vehicle attacks and vandalism. In Abuja, police used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds, resulting in at least 13 deaths and over 300 arrests, according to Amnesty International.
Adeleke, a law student at the University of Lagos (Unilag), expressed frustration over the government’s policies impacting education. Unilag recently raised tuition fees and imposed restrictions that further strain students’ finances. Adeleke criticized these measures, arguing they threaten educational access for many.
Since Bola Tinubu’s presidency began in May 2023, Nigerians have faced severe economic challenges, largely attributed to the removal of a long-standing fuel subsidy. While experts argue that this policy could eventually benefit the economy, it has led to significant increases in fuel prices and food inflation, now at 40 percent.
Economic insecurity is compounded by high unemployment, rising crime, and deteriorating living conditions. Insecurity has particularly impacted regions like Borno State, where Jibril Suleiman, a logistics worker, highlighted the severe impact on his community, including starvation and forced prostitution due to the dire conditions.
Basic commodities are increasingly unaffordable, with fuel prices nearly doubling in recent weeks. The removal of electricity subsidies has exacerbated problems for universities, leaving students without power for their studies.
Despite the large turnout in Lagos, some residents chose to stay home to avoid potential violence, leading to a quieter atmosphere in parts of the city. Armed police and military presence was heightened, with protesters chanting against perceived government injustices.
The protests are part of a broader wave of unrest across Africa, echoing recent demonstrations in Kenya and Uganda. The Nigerian government has attempted to counter the protests by increasing the minimum wage and offering job opportunities, but these measures have yet to quell public dissatisfaction.
Critics argue that the government remains out of touch with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, highlighting ongoing issues of corruption and mismanagement. The protests reflect a growing demand for accountability and substantial change.
As protests continue, many Nigerians hope for meaningful improvements to their living conditions. “My business is failing, and we’re struggling to get by,” said Adeola Babatunde, a market vendor. “We’re here to demand change and make our voices heard.”
The demonstrations underscore a deep-seated frustration with the current administration and a call for urgent reforms to address Nigeria’s escalating economic and social crises.