Organisers of planned nationwide protests talk tough, say no going back on demonstration

With anticipation building for the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests, previously anonymous organisers have stepped forward, as reported by Saturday PUNCH.

These organisers remain resolute in their decision to hit the streets on August 1st to voice their discontent over poor governance, widespread hardship, and pervasive hunger.

At least 26 groups have pledged to participate in these protests, emphasizing their commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerians. They have formally requested permission from 20 state governments to utilize public infrastructure for their demonstrations.

Confirmed participating groups include Concerned Nigerians, Nigerians Against Hunger, Initiative for Change, Take it Back Movement, Revolution Now, Human Rights Co-Advocacy Group, Nigerians Against Corruption Initiative, Citizens for Change Advocacy Initiative, Timely Intervention, Active Citizens Group, Students for Change, We Coalition, Total Intervention, Refurbished Nigeria, Tomorrow Today, Our Future in Our Own Hands Initiative, Youths Against Tyranny, and Call a Spade a Spade Movement.

Notably, Omoyele Sowore, the Convener of the Revolution Now Movement and a former presidential candidate, released a comprehensive list of protest locations across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory. He encouraged Nigerians to join the protests in their towns or cities if not already listed. Designated locations include various prominent spots in states such as Lagos, Kano, Bauchi, Enugu, Jigawa, Ekiti, Cross River, and the Federal Capital Territory.

Damilare Adenola, the Director of Mobilisation for the Take it Back Movement in the FCT, emphasized the broad support for the protests, asserting that they are driven by a collective frustration among Nigerians. The group has requested the use of the National Stadium from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for their peaceful demonstration, stressing the need for essential facilities and security.

Tunde Thomas of Nigerians Against Hunger articulated the group’s straightforward demand: an end to hunger. Similarly, Ocean Panem, Secretary-General of the Initiative for Change, stressed that the protest aims to amplify the voices of all Nigerians, particularly those in the Middle Belt and Cross River.

Despite facing potential pushback, organizers like Jabir Yaro, National Chairman of the Northern Comrades Movement of Nigeria, remain steadfast. He dismissed any threats of intimidation and called on millions to join the protests.

The Take it Back Movement has also accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of freezing their United Bank of Africa account, allegedly to hinder their protest efforts. The group has threatened legal action if the account is not unfrozen within 24 hours.