Politics
Lagos Erupts in Defiance: Atiku’s son Brave Police Clampdown to Demands End to ‘Bad Governance
In a stunning display of determination and frustration, Lagos residents poured onto the streets in droves, undeterred by stern warnings and a heavy police presence.
The protests, tagged #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria, swept across the city, with Ojota emerging as the epicenter of the demonstrations.
Despite government efforts to contain the protests, the movement gained momentum, fueled by online campaigns and a growing sense of discontent among Nigerians.
The authorities’ concerns about a potential repeat of the recent violent protests in Kenya, which forced the government to backtrack on new taxes, seemed to be materializing.
As the protests intensified, major roads, including the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, were largely deserted, while Ojota became the focal point of the demonstrations.
The government’s designation of Ojota as the official protest site drew many demonstrators to the area, with some walking from Ikeja Underbridge to the Gani Fawehinmi Park.
The protest also saw the participation of high-profile individuals, including Shehu Atiku Abubakar, son of the former Vice President, adding a significant presence to the movement.
However, reports from social media platforms indicate that the police actively discouraged protests in other parts of Lagos, including Badagry, where officers allegedly told demonstrators to relocate to Ojota or face consequences.
One user shared their experience, stating, “We were peacefully protesting in Badagry when the police interrupted us, demanding we go to Ojota if we want to protest. They also threatened to deal with us if we refused to leave.”
In a dramatic turn, a protester was seen undressing as a symbolic act to draw attention to the dire situation many Nigerians face.
The protest at Ojota also witnessed confrontations between demonstrators and counter-protesters, leading to tense scenes as both sides clashed over the future direction of the country.
The impact of the protests is being felt across Lagos, with many shops shuttered in anticipation of unrest.
Traders who managed to open their stalls reported little to no foot traffic, reflecting the widespread disruption caused by the ongoing demonstrations.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Lagos are demanding change, and their voices will not be silenced.