Hardship protest: Osun protesters hit Osogbo streets despite rain

On Thursday, numerous residents of Osogbo defied a light morning rain to take to the streets, protesting under the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement against the country's poor economic conditions. The demonstrators began their march at Freedom Park and proceeded along the popular MDS road to Olaiya Junction. Here, they were met by armed security personnel and addressed the media, voicing their frustrations and demands. Despite the drizzle, the protesters, carrying a large banner that read 'End bad governance in Nigeria,' chanted songs expressing their discontent with the state of the economy. Adetunji Ajala, the Osun State Coordinator of the Coalition of Concern Nigeria Citizens, spoke on behalf of the protesters, demanding that the pump price of fuel be reduced to N180 per liter.

Ajala emphasized that the protest was not politically motivated or funded but reflected the widespread dissatisfaction among the populace. He stated, 'Hunger, poverty, and bad policies are affecting us all. The youth, who make up the largest portion of the population, are suffering the most. The office of the citizen is the highest in the land, and we are exercising our rights.' He also criticized the current pump price of N800 per liter and called on President Bola Tinubu to review his policies. The protest, which is set to continue for ten days, underscores the urgent demand for change and better governance.

PUNCH Online reports that major protests erupted across Nigeria on August 1, driven by public dissatisfaction with the country's economic and social conditions. Demonstrators nationwide voiced their frustrations, calling for reforms and greater accountability. Earlier, President Bola Tinubu urged patience with his policies and warned citizens against allowing hoodlums to exploit the unrest. The protest highlighted the nation's desire for change and the need for peaceful, constructive dialogue.