Activists have declared their intention to proceed with the October 1 protest against hardship in Nigeria, despite warnings from the Federal Government and the Nigerian Police Force.
Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate and leading figure in the protest, confirmed that the demonstrations would take place peacefully across the country, with the primary event held at Eagles Square, Abuja.
Sowore, speaking via social media on Monday, stated that the protest is a response to widespread hardship caused by the government’s policies.
“The protests will hold across all parts of Nigeria because the scale of the devastation, hunger, insecurity, and hardship that this government has unleashed on Nigerians is national,” he said.
Citing issues such as rising fuel prices, the naira’s devaluation, and escalating food costs, Sowore explained that Nigerians are justified in voicing their grievances.
He also highlighted the growing insecurity and devastating floods that have displaced communities. Sowore dismissed the authorities’ concerns, emphasising the peaceful nature of the protests.
“We will not be deterred by threats or violence. Our only weapon is truth, and no amount of force will prevent us from speaking truth to power,” he said.
Despite warnings from the government, Sowore assured that the protest would attract thousands. “Our organizers are on the ground and will not be going into hiding. These are revolutionary times; Nigerians will hit the streets en masse starting from 7 am on October 1.”
The protest is expected to be one of the largest demonstrations against the current government’s policies.
