Peaceful Protest in Nigeria: Legitimate or Not?, by Abubakar Yakubu Zakari

As the “End Bad Governance” protests ends across Nigeria, the debate surrounding the legitimacy of such demonstrations continues to grow. For such million dollar questions, I feel the need to analyze the issue from a democratic perspective.

In Nigeria, the right to protest is guaranteed under the Constitution. Specifically, Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) provides that “Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular, may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.” This provision is the right of Nigerian citizens to engage in peaceful assembly and express their grievances, which is a defining factor of every democratic governance.

The current protests are driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the management of Nigeria’s resources and the recent spike in food prices. These demands are valid to every sensible individual and it’s similar to movements in other countries facing economic hardship.

However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent broadcast provides a critical and debatable viewpoint on the situation. He acknowledges the protesters’ aspirations for a better Nigeria but condemns the violence and destruction that have accompanied some of the demonstrations. While he appeals for an end to the unrest and advocates for dialogue, his statement also reflects a defensive stance that reveals a tension between the government’s response and the protesters’ demands.

President Tinubu’s criticism of the violence and property destruction is valid. Such acts not only undermine the legitimacy of the protests but also set back national progress, diverting resources to repair damages. Yet, his statement also highlights a broader critique: the disconnect between government promises and tangible improvements in citizens’ lives.

Tinubu defends his administration’s economic policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the introduction of a student loan scheme, as necessary for long-term growth. However, the effectiveness of these measures in addressing immediate concerns such as inflation and unemployment remains contentious. His assertion that the government has made significant strides—such as increasing revenues, investing in infrastructure, and supporting youth initiatives—contrasts with the persistent economic struggles and public dissatisfaction.

It’s obvious that the administration’s focus on infrastructure and economic reforms does not fully address the urgent needs of the citizens, especially those protesting. The government’s inability to swiftly respond to the protesters’ legitimate demands has exacerbated the situation, leading to violence and loss of lives.

One may ask, what does the government need to ameliorate the situation? I maintain that The way forward is simple. While President Tinubu’s commitment to economic reform and national development is evident, his administration must engage more effectively with the concerns raised by the protesters. Addressing these issues with urgency and transparency is crucial to restoring peace and preventing further unrest. The challenge lies in reconciling governmental actions with the genuine needs and aspirations of the Nigerian populace.

May God save us from us.

Abubakar Yakubu Zakari
Mass Communication Department
Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State