As momentum continues to build in Nigeria ahead of the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, some organizers, previously tagged as ‘faceless,’ have revealed their identities, according to reports from Saturday PUNCH.
These organizers have expressed their determination to proceed with their protest on August 1, aiming to address issues of bad governance, hardship, and hunger. Despite challenges and accusations, they remain undaunted in their mission to bring these concerns to the forefront.
The protest groups, totaling at least 26, have made it clear that they will take to the streets to voice their grievances against the prevailing conditions. They have also sought permission from at least 20 state governments to use state infrastructure for their demonstrations, demonstrating their commitment to a lawful and organized protest.
Among the identified groups are the Concerned Nigerians, Nigerians Against Hunger, Initiative for Change, Take it Back Movement, Revolution Now, Human Rights Co-Advocacy Group, Nigerians Against Corruption Initiative, Citizens for Change Advocacy Initiative, Timely Intervention, and Active Citizens Group. These groups have been vocal about the issues plaguing the nation and are determined to make a difference through their civic engagement.
Other groups participating in the protest include Students for Change, We Coalition, Total Intervention, Refurbished Nigeria, Tomorrow Today, Our Future in Our Own Hands Initiative, Youths Against Tyranny, and Call a Spade a Spade Movement, among others.
In conversations with Saturday PUNCH, several organizers, who requested anonymity, revealed the involvement of six more groups, including an all-female group, further showcasing the diversity and widespread support for the protest.
The organizers have faced significant challenges, including accusations from the Inspector General (IG) of foreign infiltration and youth claims against the Department of State Services (DSS) for freezing accounts. Despite these obstacles, the organizers are resolute in their mission. One northern group boldly stated, “Nobody in the world can stop us.”
Additionally, influential figures such as Tantita boss and Tompolo have appealed to the organizers to reconsider their demonstrations, advising them to shelve their plans. However, the organizers remain steadfast in their decision to move forward with the rallies.
The nationwide protest aims to highlight and address the pressing issues of bad governance, hardship, and hunger that affect millions of Nigerians. By uniting diverse groups and gaining widespread support, the organizers hope to bring about meaningful change and hold the government accountable for its actions.
