Babatunji Wusu –
In a democratic society, citizens inherently possess the right to express their grievances and demand changes from their government. Nigeria is no exception to this principle. As the country grapples with severe economic hardship and escalating insecurity, Nigerians are set to exercise their constitutional right to protest from August 1st to 10th.
The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) enshrines the right to peaceful assembly and protest. Section 40 of the Constitution states: “Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular, he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.” This fundamental right is crucial in a democracy, enabling citizens to hold their leaders accountable and demand necessary changes.
Nigeria is currently facing an unprecedented food crisis, with prices soaring beyond the reach of many citizens. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that inflation hit 18.6% in June 2023, with food inflation climbing to 20.6% (1). The situation is dire, as many Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
Insecurity also remains a critical issue. The country is plagued by numerous security challenges, including Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. These threats have resulted in loss of life, displacement, and destruction. The United Nations estimates that over 3 million people are displaced in Nigeria, with many more affected by ongoing conflicts (2).
Despite these severe issues, the government’s response has been inadequate. Rising food prices and security threats have been met with insufficient action and vague promises. Nigerians, frustrated by the lack of effective measures, are mobilizing for a protest to demand concrete steps from the government to address these economic and security crises.
The international community has acknowledged the severity of the situation. The United Nations has expressed concern about Nigeria’s food security, with the World Food Programme (WFP) providing aid to affected communities (3). This global recognition of the struggles faced by Nigerians highlights the need for immediate and decisive action from the government.
The upcoming protest from August 1st to 10th is a justified response to the government’s inaction. Nigerians are exercising their constitutional right to demand change, and it is imperative that their voices are heard. The government must take urgent and effective measures to tackle the country’s economic and security challenges.
