In a significant development, food prices across Nigeria have spiked as citizens engage in panic buying ahead of the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, which begins today.
This protest aims to address the escalating cost of living and reverse certain government policies, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy.
The subsidy removal, combined with ongoing security issues in farming regions, has led to increased transportation costs and subsequent food inflation. Despite last-minute efforts by the Federal Government to halt the protest, organizers remain resolute.
Government’s Last-Ditch Efforts
Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, led a press conference urging Nigerians to avoid the protest, emphasizing the potential for it to be hijacked by criminals. “We appeal to Nigerians to shun calls for protests against hunger by prioritizing peace and progress,” Akume stated.
Other top officials, including the Minister of Information Mohammed Idris and Minister of Economy Wale Edun, highlighted the Tinubu administration’s policies aimed at economic growth. “Mr. President has just signed into law a new National Minimum Wage Act which prescribes N70,000,” noted Akume, emphasizing government efforts to alleviate economic hardship.
Market Reactions
Amid fears of violent unrest and movement restrictions, markets saw a surge in activity as citizens rushed to stock up on essentials. Prices of staple foods like rice, beans, yams, and noodles have soared, with some items experiencing their fourth price hike this year.
At Garki International Market in Abuja, a 50kg bag of rice now costs between N86,000 and N90,000, up from N79,000. Similarly, a mudu (local measure) of beans now sells for N3,500, compared to the previous price of N2,500. “I came here to buy food and stock my home for at least two weeks,” said Mrs. Adeyinka Fakunle, expressing concerns over the protest’s potential duration.
Nationwide Impact
In Ogun and Kwara states, residents voiced their struggles with insufficient funds to stock up on necessities. Mrs. Musilimatu Onikoko from Ilorin lamented, “The amount of food I bought for our family with the money I had cannot last more than three days.”
Similarly, in Asaba, Delta State, resident Uche Ijeh highlighted the difficulties faced by daily income earners in stocking their homes. “Most of us depend on our daily incomes and find it difficult to buy foodstuff,” he said.
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Security Measures and Public Appeals
In anticipation of the protest, security agencies have ramped up their presence across the country. In Osogbo, Osun State, a convoy of about 20 trucks filled with armed operatives patrolled the streets, signaling readiness to maintain order. “We want to send a signal to anyone planning to hijack the protest that we are ready to protect lives and properties,” said Osun State Police Command spokesperson Yemisi Opalola.
Governors from several states, including Lagos, Taraba, and Ebonyi, urged residents to avoid the protest and opt for dialogue. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of unity and peaceful engagement, while his Taraba counterpart Agbu Kefas announced educational and mental health initiatives to support youths.
Legal and Civil Society Reactions
In a legal move, a Kwara Magistrate Court ordered protest organizers to restrict their activities to specific areas to prevent potential violence. Civil society groups also voiced their perspectives, with Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, a prominent human rights lawyer, criticizing the government’s economic policies and urging respect for the right to peaceful protest.
“The twin policies of oil subsidy removal and currency devaluation have crippled the economy,” Adegboruwa stated, calling for their reversal and emphasizing the protection of protesters’ rights.
As the #EndBadGovernance protest begins, tensions remain high, with food prices soaring and security forces on alert. While the government appeals for peace and dialogue, citizens continue to express their frustrations, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges.