The #EndBadGovernance Movement has announced that October 1, will be designated as a “National Day of Survival.” This declaration comes as the country struggles with escalating economic challenges, including soaring fuel prices and rampant inflation.
The protest is set to commence at 7:30 AM from Ikeja Under Bridge in Lagos, with organizers urging citizens from all walks of life to participate in a peaceful demonstration against the government’s policies.
During a press conference held on September 26, key figures from the movement articulated their grievances against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. They condemned the implementation of what they described as “IMF/World Bank-inspired anti-poor capitalist policies,” which they argue have exacerbated the plight of ordinary Nigerians. The organizers highlighted that recent hikes in fuel prices—now fluctuating between N900 and N1,900 per liter—have led to catastrophic increases in food costs and living expenses, pushing many families to the brink of starvation.
Hassan Soweto, one of the movement’s leaders and national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign, emphasized that this year’s Independence Day should not be a time for celebration but rather a moment for reflection and action against the “brutal and repressive measures” employed by the government to stifle dissent. He stated, “rather than celebrate, October 1st should be a day to fight for the survival of democratic rights and the dignity of the Nigerian people.”
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The #EndBadGovernance Movement is calling for a collective response from various sectors of society, including workers, students, traders, and youth groups. They have outlined several cardinal demands aimed at alleviating the suffering faced by Nigerians, the demands are; reversal of recent fuel price hikes, reduction in food prices, implementation of a minimum wage of N70,000, immediate release of all detained #EndSARS and #EndBadGovernance protesters, enhanced security measures to combat rising insecurity.
Organizers have expressed frustration over the government’s lack of action following previous protests held in August, which lasted ten days and focused on similar demands. They criticized President Tinubu for allegedly prioritizing luxury expenditures over addressing pressing societal issues.
As Nigeria approaches this significant date, many citizens are expected to join in solidarity with the protesters, reflecting a growing sentiment that “enough is enough.” The movement warns that unless their demands are met promptly, further protests will ensue beyond October 1.
The planned demonstrations represent not just a protest against current policies but also a broader call for systemic change in governance that prioritizes the welfare of all Nigerians over the interests of a privileged few. As tensions mount and economic conditions deteriorate, October 1 promises to be a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for justice and equity.
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