In a democratic society, citizens have the inherent right to express their grievances and demand change from their government. Nigeria is no exception. With the country facing unprecedented economic hardship and insecurity, Nigerians are exercising their constitutional right to protest from August 1st to 10th.
The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and protest. Section 40 of the Constitution states, “Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular, he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.” This fundamental right is essential in a democracy, allowing citizens to hold their leaders accountable and demand change.
Nigeria is facing an unprecedented food crisis, with prices skyrocketing beyond the reach of average citizens. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country’s inflation rate hit 18.6% in June 2023, with food inflation reaching 20.6% (1). The situation is dire, with many Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare.
Insecurity is another critical issue plaguing Nigeria. The country is facing numerous security challenges, including Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. These security threats have resulted in the loss of lives, displacement of people, and destruction of property. According to the United Nations, over 3 million people are displaced in Nigeria, with many more affected by the ongoing conflicts (2).
Despite the glaring issues, the government’s response has been inadequate. The soaring food prices and insecurity have been met with lip service, with little concrete action taken to address the root causes. Nigerians are tired of empty promises and are demanding tangible results. The upcoming protest is a call to action, urging the government to take decisive steps to address the economic and security challenges facing the country.
The international community has recognized the plight of Nigerians. The United Nations has expressed concern over the country’s food security situation, with the World Food Programme (WFP) providing assistance to affected communities (3). The international community’s recognition of Nigerians’ struggles underscores the need for the government to take action.
The upcoming protest from August 1st to 10th is a justified response to the government’s inaction in addressing the soaring food prices and insecurity. Nigerians are exercising their constitutional right to demand change, and their voices must be heard. The government must take concrete steps to address the economic and security challenges facing the country. The international community’s recognition of Nigerians’ plight underscores the need for urgent action.
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