A group of angry protesters in their hundreds on Monday hit the streets of Ibadan, Oyo State to protest the high cost of living, food inflation and the current economic hardship in the country, calling on President Bola Tinubu to address the issues of insecurity and hunger in the country.
They also chanted songs to show their grievances.
The youths are protesting with placards with some inscriptions such as ‘End food hike and inflation’, ‘The poor is starving’ and ‘Tinubu, don’t forget your promises’, amongst others.
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An activist, Solomon Emiola said that the protest was aimed at telling government that Nigerians could no longer endure the present economic hardship.
“This has put everybody in a state of confusion. We don’t know where to go again.
“As citizens of Nigeria, it is expected that the provision of social amenities is the primary duty of every government.
“The provisions of Chapter two of 1999 Constitution (as amended) are not met by our leaders, and we, as citizens, must hold them accountable.
“Sections 33 and 34 empowered every citizen to come out to protest the high cost of living, fuel hike and other abnormal policies,” Emiola said.
He condemned what he described as government’s decision to follow the dictates of International Monetary Fund (IMF), leading to naira devaluation.
“We expect government to declare a state of emergency on the economy and security,” the activist said.
However, armed policemen were seen at the protest scene as demonstrators held the peaceful rally against the economic hardship occasioned by the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange windows.
Recall that the police on Sunday warned that no breach of peace would be allowed during any protest in the state.
They held placards bearing messages such as “Tinubu Must Address Insecurity” and “Hunger is Killing Us.”
The protesters also expressed concern about the high cost of living, which they say is making it difficult for people to afford necessities.
The protest comes at a time when Nigeria is facing several security challenges, including kidnappings, banditry, and attacks by terrorist groups.
They said food prices have also skyrocketed, making it difficult for many Nigerians to feed their families.
The protesters hope that their demonstration will draw the attention of Tinubu and the government to these pressing issues. They are also calling on the government to do more to alleviate the suffering of the people and to improve the country’s economy.
The protest has been peaceful so far, but there are fears that it could turn violent if the government does not respond to the demands, as security personnel are stationed at strategic locations.
