#EndBadGovernance Protesters Return to Abuja on Final Day of Nationwide Demonstrations

Protesters in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, have returned to the streets as the #EndBadGovernance movement reaches its climax. The demonstrations, which had briefly paused after normalcy seemed to return to the city, have once again drawn large crowds demanding change.

Images circulating online show protesters holding placards with messages such as “End Bad Governance in Nigeria,” “Nigerians are tired of bad leaders,” and “Return Fuel Subsidy.” These slogans echo the widespread frustration that has fueled the protests over the last ten days.

The Take It Back Movement, a key organizer of the #EndBadGovernance protest, had previously announced plans for a one-million-man march in Abuja and across all 36 states to conclude the mass action that began on August 1. National Coordinator of the movement, Sanyaolu Juwon, emphasized the significance of the protest in a statement released late Thursday, describing it as a “monumental” event that marks a critical point in their campaign.

“This event will mark a critical juncture in our nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria campaign, which began on August 1, 2024. It started as a planned 10-day protest but has evolved into a sustained and widespread movement, drawing participants from every corner of Nigeria and the diaspora,” Juwon said.

Despite the peaceful intentions of the organizers, the protests have faced challenges, including attempts by criminal elements to hijack the movement. However, the protests have still seen significant participation, particularly in the northern states.

President Bola Tinubu had made a nationwide appeal last Sunday, urging protesters to stand down and allow his administration more time to address their concerns. Nevertheless, the protests have persisted, with demonstrations continuing in major cities including Abuja, Rivers, and Lagos.

As the final day of the protest unfolds, all eyes are on Abuja, where the movement began and where its impact will be most closely watched.