Nigerians Plan Nationwide Protests Amid Worst Cost-of-Living Crisis in Decades
July 31, 2024
Nigerians are planning nationwide protests this week in response to the country's worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation.
Many Nigerians are forced to take on multiple jobs to make ends meet amid rising living costs and economic instability.
Increased transportation costs and reliance on generators due to electricity shortages are further straining household budgets.
President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, have significantly increased petrol prices and living costs.
These ongoing economic difficulties are linked to a 28-year high inflation rate and government policies that have devalued the local currency.
Residents are expressing fears of violence, recalling the destructive anti-police protests in October 2020 known as EndSars.
Authorities are concerned that the protests could escalate into violence, reminiscent of the deadly demonstrations against police brutality in 2020.
In anticipation of the protests, Nigerian security forces have been deployed in major cities to maintain order.
Protest organizers have rejected police proposals to limit gatherings to controlled spaces, indicating widespread public frustration.
Despite being a major oil producer, President Tinubu's government is struggling to address severe economic hardships faced by citizens.
Acute hunger affects at least 32 million Nigerians, representing 10% of the global hunger burden, according to the World Food Program.
Critics argue that President Tinubu has not met the high expectations set when he came to power, citing worsening security and economic conditions.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

Yahoo News • Jul 31, 2024
Nigerians are frustrated by economic hardship but authorities fear planned protests could turn ugly
Investing.com • Jul 31, 2024
Nigeria security forces deploy, government offers dialogue as protests loom