Activists Vow to Proceed with October 1 Protest Against Hardship Despite Government Warnings
Organizers of the planned October 1 protest against the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria have firmly stated their intention to go ahead with the demonstration, despite warnings from the Nigerian Government and the Nigerian Police Force.
Leading the charge, former presidential candidate and activist Omoyele Sowore announced via his social media platform, X, that the protests will take place nationwide, asserting, “NO GOING BACK! #FearlessInOctober.”
Sowore confirmed that the primary gathering will occur at Eagles Square in Abuja, with peaceful demonstrations planned across the country. “The scale of devastation, hunger, insecurity, and hardship unleashed by this government is national,” he emphasized, reiterating the commitment to non-violence. “Our last protests were peaceful, yet the government met us with batons and bullets. We will not be deterred; our only weapon is truth, and no amount of force will silence us.”
Highlighting the urgent need for action, Sowore pointed to rising petrol prices, further devaluation of the naira, and rampant insecurity. “Hunger pangs have spread across the country, and it’s essential for Nigerians to voice their displeasure against this government’s failures,” he stated. “Thousands will raise their voices on October 1; the government will not drown out our pain.”
In response to the planned protests, the Nigerian Police Force has increased security measures, asserting that they had not been officially notified of the demonstrations. Various state police commands, including those in Niger, Kano, and Kaduna, have announced deployments of personnel to strategic locations to maintain public order.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, urged protest organizers to reconsider their plans, suggesting they allow the government more time to address the country’s economic challenges. However, the Take It Back Movement’s National Director, Juwon Sanyaolu, stated, “We are organizing openly and exercising our constitutional right to protest. We have not committed any offense.”
Sanyaolu’s sentiments were echoed by the movement’s Director of Mobilization, Damilare Adenola, who insisted, “Protest is not a crime. I will not run, having done nothing wrong.”
In Rivers State, Publicity Secretary Andy Akpotive emphasized that the protests aim to hold leaders accountable. “October 1, 2024, is our opportunity to assert our rights and refuse to be cowed,” he declared.
As the October 1 date approaches, the Lagos State Government reiterated that court restrictions on protests remain in effect, limiting demonstrations to two designated venues. Attorney General Lawal Pedro (SAN) urged organizers to avoid disrupting public life, underscoring the governor’s commitment to maintaining safety and order.
