In preparation for the August 1 nationwide protest organized by youth and civil society groups demanding an end to harsh government policies and economic hardship, deployment of security forces has been initiated across Nigeria.
The military, police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) are on high alert.
The protests are driven by discontent over rising living costs, the removal of the petrol subsidy, and related economic issues. Organizers are calling for improvements in living standards and a reversal of recent government policies.
The NSCDC has mobilized 30,000 personnel nationwide to secure critical infrastructure and prevent violence.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen. Edward Buba and other security officials have confirmed extensive deployment, while stressing that its routine nature for counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and various states, unusual numbers of security personnel have been observed. The NSCDC, police, and military have intensified surveillance, with visible patrols in cities including Abuja, Enugu, and Lagos.
Some states, including Niger State, have already seen early demonstrations, with youths blocking roads and voicing their frustrations. The police and military swiftly intervened to manage these protests and prevent major disruptions.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed senior officers to protect the protesters, following a request from human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN). The police chief’s directive includes ensuring peaceful conduct and avoiding any destruction of property.
The United Action Front of Civil Society has urged citizens to proceed with their planned demonstrations, holding the government accountable for any negative outcomes. They advocate for addressing key demands like reducing fuel prices and cutting governmental costs.
The heavy security presence echoes past experiences, such as the 2020 #EndSARS protests, which saw attacks on correctional facilities and significant unrest. Security agencies say they are keen to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
