On the second day of nationwide protests in Nigeria, enthusiasm dwindled significantly. The initial fervor witnessed among protesters last Thursday began to wane yesterday, with the ten-day protest’s momentum slowing down. In northern cities, crowds were smaller, and security forces managed to keep defiant protesters in check. The southern regions, particularly the South East, remained mostly peaceful, with some states not participating and businesses resuming normal operations.
ABUJA
Fewer protesters returned to the streets of Abuja on Friday compared to the previous day when hundreds expressed grievances about the high cost of living. Thursday’s peaceful demonstration turned violent after police fired tear gas at the crowd. Yesterday, heavy police and military presence was visible around MKO Abiola Stadium, with officers guarding the expressway leading to the airport and city center.
In Gwagwalada, another group of protesters temporarily blocked the Lokoja-Abuja expressway. Security operatives dispersed them with tear gas, reopening the road for traffic. Motorists reported damage to their vehicles along Dagiri, Wazobia Park, and SDP Junction. Protesters demanded the reversal of fuel price hikes, the restoration of affordable electricity tariffs, and reduced import duties.
Some protesters at MKO Abiola Stadium called on President Bola Tinubu to address them. They expressed hope that decisive actions, like reducing fuel prices and addressing insecurity, would end their protest. A female protester clad in a hijab stated, “Everything will be normal if the government brings back the petrol subsidy.” Suwaiba Abdullahi, a nursing mother, joined the rally to protest insecurity and hardship, sharing that bandits killed her husband in Katsina State in March.
LAGOS
In Ojota, Lagos, police officers protected protesters as they marched to Alausa, Ikeja. The protesters enjoyed a moment of entertainment, with a DJ providing music. Among them was an eight-year-old girl holding a placard that read, “My Dad can’t afford my school fees. My President, help please.” The protesters dispersed peacefully, promising to continue the protest today.
PLATEAU
In Jos, Plateau State, the second day of the #EndBadGovernance protest was peaceful. Vehicular and pedestrian movement decreased compared to the first day. Economic activities slowed, with few shops opening. Protesters blocked the old Airport Junction, with security agents guarding strategic locations.
BENUE
In Makurdi, the Benue State capital, residents shunned the nationwide protest for the second consecutive day. Military and security personnel were visible at strategic points, but the town remained peaceful. Civil servants reported to work, and businesses and markets remained open.
OYO
In Ibadan, Oyo State, normalcy returned as commuters and citizens resumed daily activities. The first day of the protest saw businesses closed out of fear, but by Friday, people were back on the streets. Locations like Idi-Ape junction, Bashorun roads, and Ashi Road were bustling with activity.
BORNO
In Maiduguri, police arrested protesters who defied a 24-hour curfew imposed after Thursday’s violent protest, which resulted in four deaths. Protesters from Gwange Ward destroyed public property on Lagos Street before soldiers intervened. Confusion arose as police announced a relaxation of the curfew for Juma’at prayers, but town criers insisted it remained effective.
YOBE
Police in Yobe State arrested 18 suspects involved in violent protests and vandalism in Nguru, Potiskum, and Gashua. The suspects, accused of torching public buildings and stealing foodstuffs, will face court upon investigation completion.
KADUNA
In Kaduna, police arrested 24 individuals for attempting to hijack the protest. The suspects injured two officers and destroyed a police armored personnel carrier. Police also recovered live ammunition from one suspect and arrested another for wearing police camouflage.
ANAMBRA
Anambra residents fully returned to their businesses on Friday, having shunned the protest. A tricycle operator expressed delight in Igbo people’s decision to stay home on the first day, avoiding casualties. Markets, banks, and offices reopened, and security operatives resumed their normal duties.
KWARA
In Kwara State, normal business activities resumed on Friday after a partial closure on Thursday. Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq commended residents for maintaining peace and harmony.
SOKOTO
In Sokoto, protesters failed to show up for the continued protest. Police dispersed a small group near Sultan Palace with tear gas. The Sokoto central market and other commercial activities returned to normal.
KATSINA
Katsina State imposed a 24-hour curfew on Dutsinma Local Government Area and a 7 pm to 7 am curfew on other LGAs. Police arrested over 50 suspects involved in destroying property.
ABIA
In Abia State, residents continued normal activities, with no protests reported. However, banks remained closed as a precaution.
OGUN
In Abeokuta, Ogun State, commercial activities resumed fully on Friday. Security operatives were present at MKO Abiola International Stadium, ensuring residents moved around unhindered.
ONDO
In Ondo State, normal activities resumed after Thursday’s protest. Markets, shops, and many banks reopened, with security personnel guarding strategic locations.
DELTA
Delta State remained calm, with no protesters seen by Friday noon. Commercial activities were in full swing, and security operatives maintained order.
