According to DAILY POST, the demonstrations, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the nation’s economic conditions, are set to take place across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The goal is to draw government attention to the severe hardships affecting citizens and potentially prompt a reversal of some of the current policies that have exacerbated the economic crisis.

The announcement of the protests has heightened anxiety among government officials, business owners, and security agencies, who fear potential attacks and disruptions.

Since President Bola Tinubu’s elimination of fuel subsidies in 2023, the country has been grappling with severe inflation. The National Bureau of Statistics recently reported alarming increases in food prices, with some items rising by as much as 250 percent. For example, the price of white Garri surged by 181.66 percent over the past year, while beans and yam tubers saw increases of 252.13 percent and 295.79 percent, respectively.

The organizers of the protests, dubbed “Days Of Rage,” argue that the rising cost of living and the inability of many Nigerians to afford basic necessities have spurred their call for action.

Security Concerns

There are significant concerns that the protests could escalate existing security issues in the country. The Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Defence Headquarters, and Department of State Services (DSS) have all expressed apprehensions about the potential for anarchy.

The Defence Headquarters has warned that the protests might lead to widespread violence, targeting individuals and property, similar to the 2020 #EndSARS protests. The Police Force has also cautioned against possible manipulation by foreign mercenaries and malicious groups.

The DSS has raised alarms about potential hijacking of the protests by criminal elements, suggesting that the underlying motives are political and aimed at destabilizing the government.

Organizers’ Stance

Despite these warnings, protest organizers, including former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, have vowed to proceed as planned. Sowore, currently in the United States, affirmed that the #EndBadGovernmnetInNigerja protest will commence on August 1, 2024. He acknowledged pressure to start the protests earlier but maintained that they will proceed as scheduled.

Sowore defended the inclusion of demands for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as part of the protest’s objectives. He argued that addressing such grievances is crucial for rectifying injustices.

Calls for Dialogue

Many stakeholders, including politicians, organizations, and business owners, are urging the organizers to consider dialogue over confrontation. Afenifere, a Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, has suggested that dialogue could prevent potential violence and destruction similar to that seen during the 2020 #EndSARS protests.

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has also announced its decision not to participate, criticizing the protests’ lack of clear objectives and warning against the potential for violence and instability.

AYCF President General Yerima Shettima emphasized the need for protests to be peaceful and purpose-driven, rather than leading to chaos and destruction.