Ahead of the planned nationwide protest in August, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to provide security for demonstrators.
Angry youths are determined to protest against the country’s current economic hardship. The “End Bad Governance” protest, scheduled from August 1 to August 10, is gaining momentum on social media.
While government officials have urged organizers to cancel the demonstrations, labeling them politically motivated, the TUC insists on protection for the protesters.
During a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja, TUC President Festus Osifo emphasized that the Police are required by the Police Act and the constitution to ensure security for protesters. He stated that adequate protection is crucial to prevent the protest from being hijacked by hoodlums.
“The Police Act also mandates the police to ensure law and order and protect those protesting,” said Osifo.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, governors, and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have urged Nigerians to reconsider the planned “End Bad Governance” protest.
In recent months, food and basic commodity prices have soared as Nigerians face one of the worst inflation and economic crises, fueled by the government’s policies on removing petrol subsidies and unifying forex windows.