By Jonathan Abakpa
On August 1, 2024, young people made a historic push for transformative change in Nigeria, reigniting the pursuit of inclusive and participatory governance.
By harnessing the power of popular movements, legal advocacy, and moral persuasion, they are demanding accountability from the government, aligning with the fundamental principles of civic engagement enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and various international treaties at regional, sub-regional, and global levels. This bold move marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards a more just and equitable society.
The #HungerProtest, spearheaded by the youth, draws inspiration from the visions of past generations who fought for a future where citizens can engage constructively with the government through legislative processes, judicial actions, and industrial sanctions.
Echoing the hopes of the 1990s protests, which took place under military rule, the youth aim to revive the spirit of active citizenship and participatory democracy, where citizens can mobilise and organise peaceful protests and mass actions when necessary, holding leaders accountable and shaping a better future.
On that Thursday, Nigerian youth, who had mobilised and organised nationwide for weeks, took to the streets to stage peaceful protests. For them, protest is the most effective means of engaging with the government and exercising their constitutional rights. Their demands, voiced through the #EndBadGovernance protest, include: reversing the fuel subsidy removal policy implemented by the current administration; reviewing the minimum wage from the agreed N70,000 to the initially proposed N250,000; Other demands aimed at promoting good governance and accountability.
Through their protests, the youth are exercising their constitutional rights and democratic principles to demand accountability from their leaders and shape a brighter future. Notably, the protests have been met with counter-demonstrations by anti-#EndBadGovernance groups, who emerged ahead of the August 1st, 2024, protest date. The President has although address the nation but was yet to address the issues which led to Nigerians expressing theirgrievances and aspirations of a prosperous Nigeria.
According to reports, the protest was marred by the infiltration of hoodlums on its first day, posing a significant threat to the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals, including young people, girls, young women, and persons living with disabilities. This hijacking has increased the risk of harm and exploitation, undermining the peaceful nature of the protest.
As young people take to the streets to express their grievances, the current government has a unique opportunity to make history by becoming a youth-driven administration. To achieve this, it should establish a transgenerational committee comprising young people, state officials, and representatives from diverse groups, including People with Disabilities, girls, and young women. This inclusive, intersectional approach will ensure that the demands of the protesters are heard and addressed and that practical steps are taken to implement the committee’s resolutions and recommendations.
In conjunction with establishing a transgenerational committee, the government should also prioritise a democratised security system that safeguards human rights while maintaining security and peace. By doing so, the government can bolster citizens’ confidence in its approach to addressing the concerns raised by young people, thereby fostering a more trusting and collaborative relationship.
As the government works to address these issues, protesters, despite their anger and emotional distress, must exercise their rights within the bounds of the law. While facing provocations from hoodlums and counter-protesters, protesters must remain cautious and mindful of their legal obligations, recognising that working within the provisions of the law is essential to achieving their goals.
The right to protest is a fundamental pillar of democracy. As a federal republic built on democratic principles, Nigeria has a golden opportunity to showcase its commitment to democratic values. As Africa and the world watch, our response to these protests will serve as a beacon for democratic governance on the continent. This moment will be etched in the annals of history as a testament to our nation’s dedication to upholding the principles of democracy.
Jonathan Abakpa, a lawyer, works with Plan International Nigeria as Advocacy and Youth Programme Officer. He wrote from Abuja.
