Nigerian President Calls for End to Deadly Protests Over Economic Hardship
Despite acknowledging the protesters' frustrations, Tinubu defended his economic policies. The demonstrations have seen violence and looting, with some protesters showing support for Russia. Amnesty International and protest leaders are demanding further investigations and public dialogue.
Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria - President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has urged an end to the ongoing protests that have resulted in violence and fatalities. The demonstrations, sparked by escalating living costs, have led to at least seven deaths and over 700 arrests since they began last Thursday.
In a televised address, President Tinubu acknowledged the grievances of the protesters, emphasizing his awareness of their "pain and frustration." He defended his economic policies, which include the removal of a petrol subsidy and the end of the local currency's peg to the dollar, despite these measures being blamed for the rising costs.
The president expressed concern over the hijacking of the protests by looters and called for an end to the unrest to allow for dialogue. However, he did not signal any intention to reverse his economic reforms. The demonstrations, organized under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, have drawn inspiration from recent successful protests in Kenya.
Authorities have imposed 24-hour curfews in several northern states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Yobe, following accusations of violence by "hoodlums." The protests in Kano city saw significant crowds, with police responding with live ammunition and tear gas, resulting in reported looting.
Amnesty International has reported a higher death toll of 13 and has called for an independent investigation into the deaths in Kano. Some protesters in Kano have shown support for Russia, waving Russian flags and calling for assistance from President Vladimir Putin.
In Abuja, security forces have continued to use tear gas to disperse protesters. While businesses in Lagos and parts of Abuja have begun to reopen, flights to Kano remain canceled. There are doubts whether President Tinubu's address will quell the unrest, with some protesters insisting they will continue until their demands are met.
Protest leaders, including Abiodun Sanusi of the Take It Back Nigeria movement, have called for a public dialogue with the president. They insist on a meeting at Eagle Square in Abuja, televised for all Nigerians to see, and have rejected secret negotiations.
Respected security analyst Bulama Bukarti has warned against the use of Russian flags by protesters, suggesting it could be dangerous and manipulated by external forces. This comes in the context of recent coups in neighboring West African countries where Russian support has been welcomed.
