Womanifesto, a coalition of over 300 women’s rights activists, advocates, and organizations, has announced its decision to participate in the upcoming #ENDBADGOVERNANCE protest in Nigeria.
The group has issued a press release expressing their commitment to demand accountability and good governance while condemning any attempts at harassment and intimidation.
In a statement today, Womanifesto expressed solidarity with the suffering Nigerians who face high inflation, diminished purchasing power, and escalating costs of electricity and fuel.
The group made reference to the widespread discontent in the country with the current economic conditions and criticized the government’s response to the planned protest.
“It is disheartening that several government officials, state and non-state actors have attempted to label this protest as a coup, treason, or insurrection. This propaganda is loud, deliberately provoking, and incongruous,” the groups said.
Womanifesto stated that civil liberties, including the right to assemble, are protected by law both globally and in Nigeria.
The group condemned efforts to intimidate Nigerians into silence, asserting that oppressive tactics will be firmly resisted.
The statement referenced the 2020 #EndSARS protest, noting how the movement, initially peaceful, was marred by violence and looting by politically sponsored thugs.
Womanifesto also called for a robust police presence to ensure the safety of peaceful protesters and prevent any disruptions.
“We demand that the Nigerian police protect peaceful protesters across the country. Commendably, the Nigerian police and the State Security Service have identified threats to peace, and we expect these threats to be neutralized,” the group said.
The coalition criticized the actions of some individuals and groups protesting against the #ENDBADGOVERNANCE demonstration, calling on the police to act decisively against such provocations.
Womanifesto also urged the military to refrain from intervening in civil matters and promised to hold the President, state governors, and security forces accountable for any harm caused during the protest.
Additionally, Womanifesto called on the federal government to provide a clear plan with timelines to address the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
