Lagos, Nigeria – Defying the presence of heavily armed police personnel, protesters gathered at Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos State, to continue their #EndBadGovernance demonstrations. The protests, which began on August 1, 2024, are expected to last for 10 days, with participants demanding improved governance, an end to economic hardship and poverty, and better living conditions.
*Disappointment and Frustration*
Protesters expressed disappointment and frustration with President Bola Tinubu’s national address on Sunday, criticizing him for taking three days to respond to the protests and failing to address their key demands. The protesters rejected the President’s speech, calling it ‘unfortunate’ and inadequate.
*Incidents of Violence*
The protests have been marred by incidents of violence, with thugs attacking protesters and dispersing them violently. On Sunday, suspected government-backed thugs armed with sticks and weapons stormed the protest venue, violently dispersing the demonstrators.
*Resolute Demonstrators*
Despite police surveillance and violence, protesters remain resolute in their determination to continue until the government addresses their grievances. Social media videos show a half-naked man joining protesters at the #EndBadGovernance demonstration, chanting in Yoruba, “We are angry, we are hungry.”
The #EndBadGovernance protests highlight the growing discontent among Nigerians, who are demanding meaningful change and improved governance from the President Tinubu administration.