A group of youths has hit the streets of Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, to voice their frustrations against economic hardships and insecurity plaguing Nigeria.
Marching through various areas of the city, including Old Garage, Freedom Park, and Oke-Fia, the protesters brandished placards bearing messages of discontent, chanting solidarity songs to amplify their demands for an improved quality of life for all Nigerians.
Despite the peaceful nature of the demonstration, armed policemen were present to maintain order and prevent any potential disruption by troublemakers.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Comrade Waheed Lawal criticized the government’s policies, labeling them as anti-people and insufficient in alleviating the suffering of the masses.
Lawal emphasized, “They promised us ‘Renewed Hope,’ but what they are delivering is renewed hardship. We reject this renewed hardship because Nigerians deserve better.”
Highlighting the pressing issue of insecurity, Lawal stressed the need for a peaceful environment, expressing concerns over the pervasive fear of traveling due to the prevailing security challenges.
The protest in Osogbo mirrors similar demonstrations in Minna, Niger State, and Kano, underscoring the widespread discontent across the nation, particularly in the Northern region.
In Minna, demonstrators, predominantly women and youths, took to the streets, blocking major roads to demand relief from the escalating cost of living.
The surge in living expenses follows the government’s recent removal of fuel subsidies and currency controls, resulting in a surge in petrol prices and a sharp depreciation of the naira against the dollar.
Government officials, including ministers of finance, information, budget and national planning, and agriculture, along with senior aides, have convened meetings to address the pressing issues.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris assured that discussions are ongoing and that a resolution is imminent, promising that the government will soon provide clarity on the situation.
