Day 3: Organizers Distance Themselves from Adegboruwa, Assert Protests Will Continue Until FG Responds to Demands

Organizers of the #EndBadGovernance protests have announced that the nationwide rallies, which entered their second day on Friday, will continue until President Bola Tinubu addresses their demands.

Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the Take It Back Movement, made this declaration during an appearance on Channels Television’s The August Protests program.

Adenola also revealed a significant update: human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, who had previously sought protection for the protesters from security agencies, is no longer associated with the group. Despite Adegboruwa’s past involvement, he is no longer authorized to speak on their behalf.

While the protests are planned to last for 10 days, Adenola suggested that their duration might extend depending on the government’s response. He highlighted the stark contrast between the economic struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians and Adegboruwa’s more comfortable position.

“We are waiting for the government to address our demands,” Adenola said. “Until that happens, the protests will continue. Our actions have already conveyed our message to the current administration.”

Since their start on August 1, 2024, the protests have encountered disruptions, including police use of tear gas and reports of looting by opportunistic individuals. In response, several state governments have imposed curfews in affected areas.

Amnesty International has reported fatalities linked to the protests, including the death of a police officer and several injuries. The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, confirmed these incidents and noted damage to police stations.

The protests have been fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with rising food prices and a severe economic crisis, worsened by government policies on petrol subsidies and foreign exchange rates. Protesters are demanding the restoration of subsidies, solutions to food shortages, reduced unemployment, decreased government spending, and reforms to electoral and anti-corruption institutions.

The demonstrations are scheduled to continue until August 10, covering all states and the nation’s capital, Abuja.