In a stark demonstration of the power of civic movements, the streets and markets of Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, were eerily deserted today as fears of violence loomed over the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests.
The protests, which have been gaining momentum over the past week, call for an end to widespread corruption, poor governance, and inadequate public services. Today, as demonstrators planned another major march, the usually vibrant city center transformed into a ghost town.
Major markets, including the popular Balogun Market, Idumota Market, and Oshodi Market, were shut as traders and shoppers heeded warnings of potential unrest.
Many businesses shuttered their doors, and traffic on the typically congested roads was sparse. Public transport services were also significantly reduced, with fewer buses and taxis operating amid the heightened tensions.
A visit by our correspondent to Ikotun-Egbe, a suburb of the state, showed a sharp contrast of its ever busy nature as it looks more like a ghost town than what it’s known to be.
Residents expressed a mix of frustration and support for the movement. “We want change, but we also fear for our safety,” said Kemi Odunsi, a shop owner in the popular Ikotun market told our correspondent. “It’s a difficult situation because our livelihoods depend on daily earnings, but we can not ignore the call for better governance.”
Sanmi Mudashiru, a commercial bus driver who plies the Ikotun-Oshodi route pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to look into the price and scarcity of petrol as he hinged the high cost of goods and services on cost pf transportation.
“I have been buying petrol at a black market rate of 900 naira per liter since Monday as I can’t spend much time queueing for fuel,” he said
The Lagos State Government has urged calm and restraint, emphasizing the right to peaceful protest while warning against any acts of violence or vandalism.
In a statement, Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu appealed to both protesters and security forces to exercise patience and maintain peace. “We hear your voices and understand your concerns. We are working tirelessly to address these issues and improve governance for all Lagosians,” he stated.
Security forces have been deployed across strategic locations in the city to prevent any escalation of violence. Despite these measures, there were reports of minor skirmishes between protesters and police in some areas, although no major incidents have been confirmed.
The #EndBadGovernance movement has drawn support from various sectors of society, including youth groups, civil society organizations, and prominent public figures. Social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing support and disseminating information about protest activities.
As the situation develops, Lagosians remain on edge, torn between the desire for systemic change and the immediate need for safety and security. The success of the movement hinges not only on the ability to sustain peaceful demonstrations but also on the government’s responsiveness to the demands for genuine reform.
