By Milcah Tanimu
The organizers of the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest, which targets issues of hunger and hardship, have vowed to continue their demonstration despite the presence of security forces intended to intimidate them. The federal government has urged protesters to return home, asking for more time to address the issues, but the protesters insist their demands must be met before they will stop.
Ene Obi, former country director of Action Aid Nigeria, and Hauwa Mustapha, prominent figures in the protest, have pledged to remain at Moshood Abiola Stadium throughout the planned 10-day protest. Despite their commitment, many protesters have left, leading to a noticeable decline in activity in Abuja.
Obi criticized the government’s response, describing recent speeches by the president as ineffective and accusing the government of worsening conditions by maintaining high fuel prices and failing to address unemployment. She expressed frustration with the lack of progress on their demands and condemned the government’s handling of the situation.
The protest has seen a reduction in participation in the Federal Capital Territory, particularly after recent clashes with police, who have used tear gas against demonstrators.