Protest Updates: See #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest Updates

Touchaheart Nigeria brings you a collation of protest live updates from different locations in Nigeria.

Protest turns violent in Abuja, as more people join

The anti-hunger protest that began peacefully on Thursday morning in Abuja escalated into violence as more protesters joined the demonstration. Initially, there were only a few participants, but the situation worsened as angry protesters began attacking innocent people and public facilities. In Gwarinpa, along the Abuja-Kaduna Highway, protesters became violent around midday, attacking passersby, motorists, and structures, and taking over the service lane at Dawaki opposite the Abuja Model City Gate. Armed with sticks, stones, and other dangerous items, they targeted anyone they encountered.

As the violence intensified, motorists and commuters fled for safety while security forces, including police, soldiers, and Department of State Services operatives, worked to control the situation. Weapon-wielding protesters, many appearing to be urchins, forced road users to scatter, and drivers had to make U-turns to escape the mob. At the Katampe Power Injection plant, soldiers were deployed to prevent vandalism. As more protesters poured into the area by 1 p.m., the military and police reinforced their presence to contain the growing crowd. The future actions of the protesters remain uncertain as they demand an end to bad governance and a reduction in hunger and poverty.
–Vanguard

Abuja protesters defy security crackdown, overrun Federal Secretariat Complex

In Abuja, thousands of protesters have taken control of the Federal Secretariat Complex after being blocked from entering the Eagle Square Complex by security forces, who used teargas to disperse them. Despite this heavy-handed response, the protesters have regrouped at the Finance Junction on Ahmadu Bello Way, where their numbers continue to grow as more residents join in. Although no gunshots have been fired, the protesters remain defiant, driven by anger over hunger and economic hardship, and the use of teargas appears to have galvanized the crowd. The situation is escalating, raising concerns about potential further violence.
–Vanguard

Hoodlums Hijack Protest In Kano, Loot Shops, Offices

The nationwide hardship protest in Kano has turned violent as hoodlums have hijacked the demonstration to loot shops and offices. According to Daily Trust, these individuals have been attacking businesses and engaging in mob action on the streets, stealing items such as chairs, computers, and other valuables.

–Daily trust (See Photos)

 

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria: Heavy security presence as protesters gather in Delta

In Asaba, Delta State, protesters have gathered at the Interbua Roundabout despite a heavy security presence. The protest, which began with two young men at 9:30 a.m., grew to 15 participants by 10:20 a.m., holding placards with messages like #EndBadGovernment and “Hardship Everywhere.” The protesters accused Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of giving money to youth groups to thwart the demonstration. One protester stated they were unarmed and urged Deltans not to fear, emphasizing that security agencies were there to protect them and not harm them. He criticized youths who accepted money from the governor, calling them a disgrace, and noted that fear of security threats was deterring more people from joining.
–Punch

Protesters Occupy Lagos Secretariat As Residents Desert Streets

The nationwide protest against hunger and hardship commenced in Lagos State on Thursday morning, leaving the Lagos metropolis unusually quiet. Pro-government protesters gathered at the Lagos State Government Secretariat in Alausa, while areas like Ikeja, Ojodu-Berger, and Ikorodu appeared deserted, with many residents staying indoors. Commercial drivers and riders, including ‘Keke Maruwa’ operators, largely avoided business, possibly due to tensions surrounding the planned protests. LEADERSHIP reports indicate that BRT buses were absent from terminals, leaving commuters stranded, and local food vendors were also missing from their usual spots.

–Leadership

NBA Sets Up Pro Bono Legal Support Services For Protesters

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has established Legal Support Services Teams nationwide to provide free legal assistance to protesters whose rights may be violated during the nationwide protests that began on Thursday morning. NBA President Yakubu Maikyau (SAN) instructed the chairpersons of the association’s 130 branches to ensure that their human rights committees address any observed or reported cases of rights violations, harassment, intimidation, or torture by law enforcement, protesters, or other individuals during the protests.

The NBA branch chairpersons have also been directed to create situation monitoring committees to oversee and report on interactions between law enforcement and protesters. Additionally, the NBA has launched an online monitoring form for individuals to report rights violations.
–Channelstv

Court orders Abuja protesters to restrict demonstrations to stadium

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has mandated that protesters limit their demonstrations to the Moshood Abiola Stadium, less than 24 hours before a nationwide anti-government protest set for Thursday. This decision comes after weeks of intense online mobilization for the protest against President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, which have been blamed for worsening hardships faced by many citizens. The protest, dubbed the #EndBadGovernance protest, has drawn significant attention and participation from various groups.

Judge Sylvanus Oriji issued the ruling following an application by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, a vocal opponent of the demonstrations. The court order restrains protesters from gathering elsewhere in the federal capital and from disrupting residents’ freedom of movement or damaging properties. Additionally, the court directed the police and security agencies to ensure adequate protection for protesters at the designated location from August 1st to 10th, 2024. While recognizing the protesters’ right to peaceful protest, the judge also ordered that the defendants be notified of the ruling through publication in a newspaper, with further hearings scheduled for August 13th, three days after the planned protest ends.
–Premium Times 

We’ll Enforce Court Order Confining Protesters – Police

The Nigeria Police Force has announced its commitment to enforce court orders restricting upcoming nationwide protests to specific areas, as planned demonstrations against rising costs begin on August 1st. Despite discussions between Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and protest organizers, the latter rejected calls for confined protests. Consequently, states including Kwara, Ogun, Lagos, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) secured legal backing to limit demonstrations to designated venues. Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that protests in Lagos are restricted to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park and Peace Park between August 1st and 10th, 2024, with assurances of maximum security at these locations.

The police have urged protesters to comply with the restrictions to maintain public order and prevent potential hijacking of the demonstrations. Lagos residents have been advised to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities, as Police Commissioner CP Adegoke Fayoade assured citizens of their safety during the protests. Fayoade emphasized the importance of respecting the rights of others, including freedom of movement, and affirmed that measures are in place to ensure a peaceful environment and unimpeded commercial activities. The police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the community while respecting democratic rights within the framework of the law.
–Daily trust…