One Million-Man March: FG Deploys Heavy Police Presence in Major Cities
Massive Police Deployment Across Major Cities Amid Protests
Organizers of the #EndBadGovernance protest are gearing up for a one million-man march today, prompting the federal government to flood key cities with law enforcement. The protest, which has been ongoing for ten days and is set to culminate today, has been marred by violence against protesters and journalists.
Participants are calling for the reinstatement of fuel subsidies, a raise in the minimum wage to N250,000, and an end to corruption and mismanagement. While some regions have seen a decrease in protest activities, states like Kano, Kaduna, Rivers, and Bauchi remain highly active.
The organizing groups have threatened a nationwide shutdown to push their demands, criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s recent address as inadequate. Tinubu had appealed for patience in a televised speech, urging an end to the protests.
According to Sanyaolu Juwon, National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement, today’s march will mark a significant moment in their campaign. Juwon stated, “The August 10 protest will be a crucial point in our #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria campaign, which started on August 1, 2024. What began as a ten-day protest has now become a widespread movement.”
Juwon also condemned the arrest of protesters and organizers, demanding their immediate release and an end to unlawful detentions.
**Increased Security Measures**
In Abuja, heightened security measures include roadblocks and increased patrols, particularly around key locations such as Eagles Square. Despite these measures, Juwon remains confident that the protest will proceed as planned, emphasizing the resilience of Nigerians in the face of repression.
In Lagos, police presence is strong around major bus stops and protest locations. The Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has been seen accompanying protesters during a candlelight vigil for those who have died in the rallies. The security presence includes soldiers and personnel from various agencies.
**Calls for Compensation and Policy Change**
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Organising Committee has urged President Tinubu to compensate families of deceased protesters, with the committee claiming over 40 deaths across the country. They also called for the dismissal of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, citing his role in the ongoing violence.
Activists emphasize the right to protest as a fundamental human right and call for an end to intimidation. However, some police officers in Lagos have restricted planned candlelight processions, leading to increased tension.
**Tensions in Kano and Rivers**
In Kano, a large deployment of police, soldiers, and NSCDC officials is evident, with increased patrols and road closures. Tensions remain high with reports of clashes between law enforcement and protesters. The police spokesperson reported threats to his life following the arrest of 322 protesters involved in looting.
In Rivers, police have increased their presence at key locations like the Federal Secretariat and Pleasure Park. Despite heavy security, protesters did not gather at these usual points on Friday.
**Civil Society and Opposition Reactions**
A coalition of 20 civil society organizations has called for the release of detained protesters and criticized the administration for militarizing civil spaces. They argue that the current government is infringing on citizens’ constitutional rights.
Opposition parties have condemned the use of live ammunition against protesters, highlighting recent fatalities including a 16-year-old in Kaduna. They argue that the violence could have been avoided with more effective leadership.
**Government and Legal Perspectives**
The ruling All Progressives Congress has called for restraint, acknowledging the use of lethal force in response to violence but emphasizing that it should not occur during peaceful protests. They stress that security forces have the right to protect themselves if attacked.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju reports that many protesters remain detained, with ongoing efforts to secure their release.
In Lagos, state officials have indicated that the protest is over and commended the peaceful resolution facilitated by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The state government has provided channels for dialogue and reported a commitment to maintaining peace.
As the one million-man march unfolds, the situation remains fluid, with significant security measures in place and ongoing calls for resolution and reform.
