Key Nigerian Figures Backing the #EndBadGovernance Protest

The #EndBadGovernance protest has stirred up considerable anxiety among both its supporters and opponents as it kicks off nationwide today, intended to run for ten days.

A Precursor to the Protest

On Wednesday, observations in the Irepodun market in Ikotun, Lagos, revealed that traders were closing their stalls almost a full day ahead of the protest. A local supermarket also announced an early closure, reflecting widespread precautionary measures among business owners.

Government Reaction and Accusations

The Nigerian government, in a bid to halt the protest, has repeatedly highlighted the violent outcomes of the 2020 #EndSARS demonstrations and recent unrest in Kenya. Officials have labeled the protest as politically motivated, accusing organizers of attempting to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which is nearly a year old.

Public Sentiment and Support

Despite government efforts to dissuade participation, many Nigerians see the protest as a critical platform to voice their frustrations over economic hardships, corruption, and governance issues. The protest aims to spotlight dissatisfaction with President Tinubu’s economic policies, which many blame for increasing the nation’s suffering.

Key Supporters and Their Roles

Several prominent Nigerians have thrown their weight behind the #EndBadGovernance protest, lending it significant credibility and momentum.

Femi Falana and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa

Two notable Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Femi Falana and Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, have publicly defended the protest, urging the government not to incite violence as a means of discrediting the movement. Their legal and moral support has been pivotal in legitimizing the protests.

Omoyele Sowore

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has been a vocal advocate for the protest. He mobilized the ‘Take It Back’ movement to lead demonstrations across the country. Sowore criticized the government for attempting to scare off protestors by predicting violence, stating that economic hardship transcends political affiliations.

Peter Obi

Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has faced criticism from government officials who accuse him of instigating the protests to destabilize the Tinubu administration. Obi has vehemently denied these claims, demanding a retraction and compensation for the defamation. His involvement underscores the protest’s broader political significance.

Aisha Yesufu

A well-known social critic and co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Aisha Yesufu, has endorsed the protests. She argued that if elections could proceed despite the threat of violence, so too should peaceful protests highlighting economic struggles. Yesufu’s activism during the #EndSARS protests adds a seasoned voice to the current movement.

Atiku Abubakar

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a presidential candidate in 2019 and 2023, has also criticized the government’s stance. He highlighted the irony of current officials suppressing protests despite their participation in similar demonstrations in 2012. Abubakar’s statements call attention to the democratic right to peaceful protest.

Historical Context and Future Implications

Nigeria’s history is dotted with significant protests, such as the 2012 #OccupyNigeria movement against fuel subsidy removal. Analysts suggest that the unpopular fuel subsidy policy and rising insecurity contributed to the APC’s 2015 election victory, which may explain the current administration’s apprehension.