A nationwide protest titled “End Bad Government in Nigeria 2024” is scheduled to take place from August 1st to August 10th, 2024. The protest, organized under the banner “10 Days of Rage,” aims to address multiple grievances against the current government. This movement is expected to be widespread, involving significant participation from various regions, tribes, and religious groups across the country.
Protest Details:
The protest will run for ten days, from August 1st to August 10th, 2024. Its main slogan, “We Are Not Slaves,” emphasizes the protesters’ resolve. The scope of the protest is nationwide, with major activities planned in key cities including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Kaduna.
The protesters have outlined several primary demands, including ending subsidy scams and reducing fuel prices to below ₦300 per liter, reverting tertiary education fees to previous rates by reversing subsidies, restoring affordable electricity tariffs, reinstating previous import duty rates, publicly disclosing and reducing the salaries and allowances of all senators, House of Representatives members, and the Speaker.
They also demand the establishment of an emergency fund to support SMEs, ensuring INEC’s independence with transparent processes for appointing its chairman, mandating INEC to electronically transmit live electoral results, reopening national borders, reforming the EFCC, declaring a state of emergency on inflation, and reforming the judiciary.
Mobilization and Logistics:
Protesters are advised to wear white (with black) attire. They are also encouraged to bring placards, handkerchiefs, a bottle of water, a white cloth or ribbon, and the Nigerian flag. Meet-up locations include all LGA, House of Rep members’ residences, and Governor’s offices across the country. In Abuja, protesters are to gather at the National Assembly Building. Specific instructions have been given for protesters in Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Abuja, Enugu, and Kaduna to block all roads leading to the cities and airports on the first day of the protest (August 1st).
Use of Social Media:
The organizers are leveraging Twitter a.k.a X to gain momentum and gather followers. Social media platforms, especially Twitter, are being used extensively to disseminate information, coordinate activities, and mobilize participants. Hashtags such as #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, #TinubuMustGo and #ENDBGIN are trending and helping to galvanize support across the nation.
This strategy is reminiscent of the #EndSARS movement in 2020, where Twitter played a crucial role in mobilizing large numbers of protesters and coordinating their actions. Notable handles pushing this current protest include @AnonXNG, @IPrinceSaviour, and @felimek.
Potential Security Concerns:
There are several potential security concerns associated with this protest. Given the widespread discontent with the government, a significant turnout is expected, which could lead to large-scale disruptions. The call to block major roads and airports may result in severe traffic congestion and disrupt public order. While the protest is intended to be peaceful, the potential for clashes with security forces and counter-protesters cannot be ruled out. Prolonged protests could also have a detrimental effect on the state’s economy, particularly if businesses and transport services are halted.
Recommendations:
In light of these concerns, it is recommended to enhance surveillance by deploying intelligence personnel to monitor the organizers and key locations mentioned in the protest plans. Increase monitoring of social media platforms to track real-time developments and gather actionable intelligence. Strategic deployment of security forces at critical infrastructure points such as airports, major roads, and government buildings is crucial to prevent any blockade and maintain public order. Engaging with the protest organizers to understand their intentions and potentially negotiate to prevent disruptions should also be considered.