#EndBadGovernance Day 2: Can This Protest Bring a Lasting Change in Nigeria?

On the first day of #EndBadGovernanceDay, what started as peaceful protests in several states turned violent, leading to tragic consequences. Despite a peaceful beginning in Lagos, scenes in other parts of the country painted a starkly different picture. 

In parts of northern Nigeria, Fourteen lives were lost, including a policeman’s, as protestors and security forces clashed under the weight of the nation’s hardship.

In Kano, the protests quickly descended into chaos with reports of killings and widespread destruction. The intensity of the violence prompted the state governments of Yobe, Kano, and Borno to impose curfews in a desperate bid to restore order. 

Violence in the North

The violence was not limited to Kano. Suleja in Niger State saw its share of tragedy. Protesters, in a clash with police, resulted in numerous injuries and deaths. A particularly poignant story is that of Yahaya Nda Isah, who, while passing by on his bike, was struck by a stray bullet and killed instantly, a grim illustration of the chaos that enveloped the area.

In Abuja, the situation escalated as well, with clashes between police and protesters. Reports indicated that the police used tear gas in response to being attacked by protesters. 

This has sparked a debate about the conduct of both the protesters and the police, complicating the narrative of the protests’ intent and execution.

Are the measures taken by security forces justifiable, and what can be done to protect civilians in future demonstrations?

The demand remains unchanged

Despite the turmoil, the heart of these protests beats with a demand for significant and enduring changes in governance. The citizens’ demands are clear and reflect deep-seated frustrations with a system perceived as corrupt and ineffective. 

Among these demands are calls for a new constitution, better wages, and a more transparent government.

With the situation of things on the first day alone, are these protests likely to bring about the deep-seated reforms that Nigeria desperately needs, or will they dissolve without meaningful action, much like previous movements like EndSars?

Will there be a repeat of the #EndSars protest?

The shadow of the End SARS movement might be growing large as Nigerians again take to the streets and are not ready to back down. Can these protests bring about the change so many Nigerians desire? 

History shows that change is possible through collective action. However, the path to meaningful reform is fraught with challenges. The violence and loss of life have already painted a somber backdrop to these calls for change, suggesting that the road ahead may be equally tumultuous.

As #EndBadGovernanceDay continues to unfold, the eyes of the nation and the world watch eagerly, hoping that this movement leads not just to temporary measures but to lasting improvements in the lives of all Nigerians.