Group insists on protest as Nigeria marks 64th independence

By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo

The Coalition of

Concerned Nigerian Citizens in Osun State has announced that there will be no turning back on the planned nationwide protest scheduled for October 1st.

Addressing journalists on Monday in Osogbo, the coalition’s coordinator, Adetunji Ajala, emphasised that the protest, tagged “National Day of Survival,” has become necessary due to the government’s negligence regarding their demands.

He stated, “It is very important to let the public be aware of the recent developments that necessitated the Fearless Protest 2.0 and the need for all to be part of this protest.”

Ajala explained that the first edition of the ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest prioritised citizens’ demands from both state and federal governments, which resulted in thousands of youths taking to the streets.

He lamented, “However, many of the demands were not met as the government turned a deaf ear to the citizens and continued to push the masses into hunger with unfriendly policies.”

He criticised the current administration for ignoring calls for action on rising fuel prices and widespread hunger.

“Instead of alleviating the suffering of the people, the PBAT-led government has increased petroleum prices, commodities in the market, and shelter costs. The new minimum wage has yet to be implemented in many states,” Ajala said.

Furthermore, he urged the Osun State government to fulfil the demands presented during the last ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest.

Ajala called on residents of the state and the nation to participate in the upcoming peaceful protest, warning individuals with political affiliations to prioritise the needs of the masses: “We urge them to set aside their political interests and stand for the people until our demands are met.”