Youth and civil society groups have planned an #EndBadGovernance protest on August 1, leading to a significant nationwide deployment of soldiers and officers by the military and police in anticipation.
The intended purpose of this action is to proactively prevent possible disturbances and guarantee safety during the demonstration, which has been scheduled in order to draw attention towards financial difficulties and demand changes in policies, notably the revocation of petrol subsidy elimination.
As security forces prepare for the nationwide rally, personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have also been placed on high alert.
The Presidency and police have urged the organizers to cancel their demonstrations, but they are unwavering in their determination for better economic conditions related to increased cost of living following removal of petrol subsidy.
There has been a noticeable increase in security measures, as military and police personnel have been observed throughout several states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Major-General Edward Buba, who oversees Defence Media Operations, verified that this deployment is part of continuous efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency.
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Surveillance and patrols have been intensified by the Guards Brigade, police, NSCDC and other security agencies in Abuja. In Niger State on Monday, youths protested preemptively by blocking the Abuja-Kaduna Road with demands for economic relief under slogans such as “Enough is Enough” and “Fuel Subsidy Must Be Back”. The protest was later disbanded by soldiers who ensured order was maintained in the area.
Abiodun Wasiu, the spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, has verified that there was a protest in Suleja which led to its dispersal. Moreover, he guarantees that everything is peaceful in Suleja and nearby surroundings. To prevent potential disruptions from happening during this period of time security agencies have put up roadblocks on both Abuja-Keffi and Abuja-Lokoza roads resulting in slow-moving traffic.
The seriousness with which the Federal Government regards the planned protest and their dedication to maintaining order while addressing citizens’ grievances is evidenced by their proactive security measures.
