#EndBadGovernance protesters defy pleas, continue demonstrations in Lagos, Port Harcourt

After two days of demonstrations nationwide, protesters have regrouped in Lagos and Port Harcourt in Rivers State as they continue to advocate for their demands.

The protests, which began on August 1 in multiple cities across Nigeria, aim to highlight the challenges facing citizens, with inflation reaching 34 percent, making basic necessities unaffordable for millions of households.

Despite appeals from authorities, including religious leaders, for demonstrators to suspend their protests after the first two days, by 8:00 am (WAT), today, young protesters were out on the streets of Lagos and Port Harcourt, carrying placards.

In Lagos, protesters gathered at Ojota. Initially sparse in number during the early hours, their ranks grew as time went on.

They displayed various placards to amplify their calls, including demands for the reversal of the fuel subsidy removal, among others.

The protesters, chanting different slogans, expressed their frustration over the authorities’ indifference to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, particularly in light of the naira’s recent devaluation to a historic low.

Police officers were present at the rally to ensure the procession proceeded smoothly. While the protesters continued their demonstrations, economic activities were unaffected and ongoing.

The situation in Lagos mirrored that of Port Harcourt, where protesters gathered at Pleasure Park. Other areas of the city remained relatively quiet, but the protest site was rapidly becoming a hub of activity as the demonstrations gained momentum.

Some participants were seen waving the Nigerian flag, insisting they would not retreat despite calls to disperse.

Officers from the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Rivers State Police Command, identifiable by their red headgear, were present at the venue as a display of force.