Lagos, Nigeria — On Thursday, human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa condemned security agents for provoking peaceful #EndBadGovernance protesters across Nigeria. Adegboruwa, who represents the Take It Back Movement, one of the protest organizers, warned that confrontations by security forces could escalate the demonstrations and urged law enforcement to act professionally.
In his statement, Adegboruwa praised the courage of Nigerians who participated in the protests despite threats and intimidation from authorities. “Despite the threats, intimidation, and harassment by authorities of the ruling government and their security apparatus, the people came out in their large numbers to speak against the suffering, hunger, and poverty imposed on them by the administration of President Tinubu,” he said.
Adegboruwa noted that the protests had been largely peaceful, especially in Lagos and Abuja, with only minor skirmishes reported, which he attributed to provocations by security agents. “Notwithstanding that, the protests were largely successful, well-coordinated, and on target,” he added.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria called on all security and law enforcement agencies to adhere to acceptable standards in handling civil protests to prevent bloodshed or loss of lives. “The responsibility imposed upon all security agencies is to provide coverage for the peaceful protesters and to avoid all provocative actions that may escalate into uncomfortable fracas,” he emphasized.
Adegboruwa also urged protest organizers to remain peaceful and avoid actions that could lead to violence or a breakdown of law and order. He called on the government to identify and hold accountable any law enforcement officers found to have violated the rights of peaceful protesters, especially in areas where reports of injuries or fatalities had emerged.
“I expect that the federal and state governments would have set up the machineries for genuine and meaningful dialogue with the protesters, with a view to addressing the issues raised in their demands. It will be the height of leadership insensitivity for the governing to remain silent and pretend that all is well,” he concluded.
The nationwide protests against economic hardship, which began on Thursday, August 1, 2024, are scheduled to continue until August 10. Social media has played a significant role in mobilizing demonstrators across all states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Nigeria is grappling with severe inflation and economic crisis, exacerbated by the government’s removal of petrol subsidies and unification of forex windows. The escalating prices of food and basic commodities have fueled widespread discontent.
Authorities, including the police, military, and Department of State Services, have warned against Kenya-style protests. Despite politicians urging the youth to cancel the rallies, fearing a repeat of the October 2020 #EndSARS demonstrations, the young protesters remain resolute.
