To Protest or Not to Protest? Weighing the Consequences

By Mohammed Bello Doka

Tension continues to rise as Nigeria stands on the brink of another significant nationwide protest, driven by the determination of its youth to challenge persistent issues of bad governance. The climate of dissatisfaction has reached a fever pitch, fueled by widespread hunger, anger, and frustration. It is a reflection of the country's dire socio-economic conditions, where no rational person would deny the youth their constitutionally guaranteed right to peaceful protest, which remains a cornerstone of democracy. The question begging for an answer is whether the protest will be peaceful or not. Judging from the utterances of some of its proponents on social media, the fears of its opponents are well-founded that the said protest might likely degenerate into chaos, looting, and thievery, leaving in its wake sorrow, tears, and regrets.

The abrupt removal of the fuel subsidy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration has exacerbated the suffering of many Nigerians. This decision, coupled with the removal of electricity subsidies, the devaluation of the Naira, and skyrocketing inflation currently exceeding 34%, has created a perfect storm of hardship. The insecurity plaguing the country has further prevented farmers from working their lands, rendering Nigeria one of the most challenging places to live. The poor are getting poorer while the rich continue to steal and plunder the country's scarce resources with an abundance of impunity and arrogance.

Adding to the woes is the insensitivity of the political class, who prioritize their comfort above all else. The unresolved issue of the 70,000 Naira minimum wage, which state governors claim is on the high side more than a year after the fuel subsidy removal, remains a sore point. A staggering 70% of Nigerian workers subsist on wages below 60,000 Naira, in a country where a bag of rice costs over 80,000 Naira. The minimum wage of 30,000 Naira barely buys a basket of tomatoes, underscoring the harsh economic realities that have turned the country into a powder keg. It has become a joke that one will see a price tag of their salary on a tin of milk.

Given these circumstances, it is unsurprising that citizens are rallying to protest. However, the genuine intentions of the protest organizers remain a critical concern, as they have chosen to stay anonymous, likely due to the precarious security situation or other ulterior motives. This brings to mind the EndSARS protests, where innocent Nigerians, including security personnel, lost their lives while some organizers profited from the chaos, highlighting the need for caution.

While the blame game continues between the government and key opposition figures, accusations and counter-accusations have persisted, akin to the popular saying, "the more you look, the less you see." The political class continues to play the populace like some kind of ball, with both sides claiming righteousness.

During the EndSARS protests, there were numerous reports of organizers distributing Bitcoin from the donations intended to support the protests. This created a scenario where, while many participants risked their lives and faced dire consequences, a select few enriched themselves, turning a noble cause into an opportunity for personal gain. This misuse of funds and the resulting distrust among the public underscores the need for transparency and accountability among protest leaders.

The "Nigerian factor" – a term often used to describe the tendency for personal enrichment at the expense of the collective good – poses a significant threat to the integrity of the upcoming protests. There is a genuine concern that the protests could be hijacked by individuals seeking to leverage the unrest for their own benefit rather than for the betterment of the nation. This potential for exploitation highlights the importance of the youth remaining vigilant and discerning about whom they follow and support.

In light of these concerns, it is imperative that the government takes proactive measures to engage with the youth. Open dialogue and constructive engagement can help address their grievances and prevent a breakdown of law and order. Ignoring the legitimate concerns of the youth or responding with repression could lead to further unrest and instability.

The government must prioritize creating avenues for meaningful discussions, ensuring that the voices of the youth are heard and their demands considered. This approach not only fosters a sense of inclusion but also mitigates the risk of protests escalating into violence. By addressing the root causes of discontent and demonstrating a commitment to reform, the government can build trust and work towards a more stable and prosperous Nigeria.

As the youth prepare to take to the streets, it is vital to remember that life continues after the protests. The fight for a better Nigeria must not come at the cost of the nation's stability or the future of its citizens. By advocating for peaceful and responsible protest and by holding both the government and protest leaders accountable, Nigerians can strive for meaningful change without sacrificing their nation's peace.

Mohammed Bello Doka writes for Abuja Network News.