Mass protests have erupted across Nigeria as citizens express frustration over worsening economic conditions and controversial government reforms. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have led to at least 13 deaths, with reports of injuries and hundreds of arrests.
The protests, which began on August 1, 2024, were primarily sparked by the removal of fuel subsidies, which have dramatically increased the cost of living, inflation, and public unrest. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, aimed at stabilizing Nigeria’s economy, have instead intensified the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Amnesty International has reported that security forces have used live ammunition and tear gas to disperse crowds in major cities like Abuja and Kano, leading to fatalities. Isa Sanusi, Nigeria director for Amnesty International, stated, “Our findings so far show that security personnel at the locations where lives were lost deliberately used tactics designed to kill.” The organization has independently verified these deaths through eyewitness accounts and family reports.
Nigerian police have detained more than 300 demonstrators and enforced curfews in several northern states, such as Kano and Katsina, in an effort to control the unrest. Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun stressed the police force’s preparedness to address any threats to public order. He stated that all police units are on high alert, ready to respond to the evolving situation, and will receive support from other security agencies, including the military, if necessary.
Economic reforms have been a central issue, with the removal of petrol subsidies causing fuel prices to soar, significantly affecting transportation and production costs. Additionally, the naira’s (currency) devaluation has led to the highest inflation rates in three decades, further straining Nigerians’ purchasing power. President Tinubu justifies these reforms as essential for long-term growth. He explains that the economy has required significant reform for decades due to its imbalance, which stems from an over-dependence on revenue generated from oil exploitation.
Despite these challenges, protesters, organized under the hashtag #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, have taken inspiration from similar movements in Kenya and Uganda. They demand reinstating fuel and electricity subsidies and addressing corruption and governance issues exacerbating poverty and inequality.
The economic crisis is particularly severe in Nigeria’s northeastern region, where prolonged conflict has left millions needing basic necessities. Over 32 million Nigerians nationwide face acute hunger, contributing significantly to the global hunger crisis.
Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to uphold the rights of protesters and allow for peaceful demonstrations. The organization emphasized the need for Nigerian authorities to ensure that security forces respect and support the right to protest peacefully, as guaranteed by the country’s constitution and international human rights treaties. Additionally, Amnesty International has urged the government to address the root causes of the protests instead of using repressive measures.
As protests continue, organizers vow to sustain their actions for 10 days, listing demands that include economic relief and government accountability.
