In fulfilment of their earlier promise to organize a one million man march as part of the ongoing protest against bad governance, numerous protesters gathered in significant numbers on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at two designated venues within the city of Abuja: the Apo district and the Lokogoma district. This demonstration was a continuation of a series of protests that began earlier in the month, showcasing the persistent demand for accountability and reform from the government.
The protesters, displaying remarkable strategic planning, consciously opted to avoid the MKO Abiola National Stadium after passing through the City Gate and the Eagle Square, choosing instead to gather at Apo and Lokogoma. This decision came in response to a notable and overwhelming presence of police and military personnel at both of the initial gathering spots, which likely made it difficult for them to assemble freely. Arriving as early as 7 am, the activists were determined to make their voices heard and bring attention to the issues at the forefront of their protests.
Amidst a sea of demonstrators, the crowd held up various placards inscribed with powerful messages. The slogans included phrases like “End hunger” and “Reverse fuel subsidy removal,” reflecting the urgent concerns that many Nigerians feel deeply about, as they continue to grapple with rising living costs and economic hardship. The atmosphere was charged with energy and a collective sense of purpose as the protesters rallied together to express their discontent with the current state of governance.
It is essential to remember that the protest, which initially commenced on August 1, had previously taken a turn for the worse. In an unfortunate twist, some hoodlums managed to hijack the peaceful demonstrations, leading to widespread looting, the destruction of critical infrastructure, and violent confrontations with motorists and bystanders alike. This shift in dynamics not only tainted the protests but also drew attention away from the original intentions of the movement.
In several Northern states, including Kano, Zamfara, Kaduna, Bauchi, and others, many of the violent demonstrators further escalated tensions by carrying and waving foreign nationals’ flags, while simultaneously calling for a regime change. This particular behavior has been met with widespread condemnation from various sectors of society, including Nigerian citizens, the armed forces of Nigeria, and other security agencies. Furthermore, the organizers of the end governance protest themselves have expressed strong disapproval of such actions, emphasizing that they undermine the legitimacy and goals of the overall movement.
Despite these challenges and setbacks, the primary objective of the protesters remains centered on demanding better governance and an end to the policies that have contributed to their suffering. They are resolute in their conviction that their voices must be heard, and they continue to demonstrate their commitment to enacting change through peaceful yet powerful means.
