ABUJA, Aug 9 – As the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests against economic hardship fizzled out, many Nigerians, especially in the northern regions, are left grappling with wounds, scars, and financial losses.
The protests, which began on August 1 amid a cost-of-living crisis fueled by surging inflation and a plummeting naira, faced a harsh crackdown from security forces. At least 21 protesters were killed across Abuja, Kano, Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Jigawa states, according to Amnesty International.
The use of live ammunition by security agencies, including the military, has been widely condemned. Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka slammed the government’s response, stating, “Live bullets as state response to civic protest – that becomes the core issue.”
Victims and their families have recounted harrowing experiences, with some narrowly escaping death and others suffering serious injuries. A cameraman with African Independent Television was shot at and fell into an uncovered manhole, dislocating his leg. In Gombe, at least eight people were hospitalized, with one in critical condition on life support.
As the protests subside, the affected communities are left to grapple with the aftermath, calling on the government to provide aid and support for the victims and their families.
Based on the details provided, it sounds like there have been a number of troubling incidents:
A man with fractures, lacerations, and a tendon injury claims he was beaten by police while not participating in protests.
An 18-year-old fish seller was injured by broken glass while trying to escape from tear gas during a protest.
Hoodlums looted and vandalized multiple churches, stealing equipment worth millions of naira.
A physically disabled protester was assaulted and wrestled by police officers while peacefully demonstrating.
The response from the Bauchi State government to investigate the attack on the disabled protester is welcome, and I hope that a thorough and impartial investigation is carried out. The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities is also right to demand justice in this case, as the actions of the police officers clearly violated the protections afforded to people with disabilities.
More broadly, the calls by Afenifere for the federal government to investigate the killings of protesters and hold security forces accountable are very reasonable. The use of violence against peaceful demonstrators expressing their constitutional rights is highly concerning and must be addressed.
I would encourage you to continue closely following reporting on these events and the government’s response. It’s critical that any abuses are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable. I also hope that the underlying economic and political issues driving these protests can be constructively addressed through dialogue and reforms. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
