Key Developments
1. Protests Continue Despite Presidential Address
Despite President Bola Tinubu's national broadcast on Sunday calling for protesters to suspend their actions and engage in dialogue, demonstrations continued across several Nigerian states on Monday. The protests, now in their fifth day, are focused on demanding economic and political reforms to address the rising cost of living and other governance issues.
2. Arrest of Protest Leader in Abuja
Michael Lenin, a prominent organizer of the #EndBadGovernance protests, was reportedly arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja around 2 am on Monday. However, the DSS later denied having Lenin in custody, creating confusion about his whereabouts and the circumstances of his alleged arrest.
3. Protests in Ibadan and Osun
Demonstrations continued in Ibadan, led by activists who stated that Tinubu's broadcast did not address the protesters' concerns. In Osun State, protesters moved from Nelson Mandela Freedom Park to major streets in Osogbo, causing traffic disruptions.
4. Violence and Looting in Kaduna
Kaduna saw some of the most intense protest activity, with thousands of demonstrators marching through major streets. Reports indicate incidents of looting and breaking into private residences. Notably, protesters were seen waving Russian flags, expressing a desire for Russian intervention similar to recent events in Niger.
5. Curfews Imposed in Multiple States
In response to the unrest, 24-hour curfews were imposed in several areas:
- Kaduna State: Curfew in Kaduna and Zaria metropolis
- Plateau State: Curfew in Jos North and Bukuru metropolis
- Bauchi State: Curfew in Katagum Local Government Area
6. Government and Security Response
- Tinubu postponed a Federal Executive Council meeting to hold talks with security chiefs.
- The military leadership warned against calls for a coup and the hoisting of foreign flags, describing such actions as treasonable offenses.
- Security agencies have been deployed to maintain order and prevent further violence.
7. Concerns Raised by Northern Elders Forum
The Northern Elders Forum expressed disappointment that Tinubu's speech did not address the issue of banditry, which they claim has caused significant harm in northern regions.
8. Ongoing Demands of Protesters
Protesters continue to demand economic relief, including a reduction in fuel prices, and broader political reforms. Some groups have called for resignation of President Tinubu.
9. International Attention
The use of Russian flags by some protesters, particularly in northern states, has drawn international attention to the demonstrations and raised concerns about foreign influence.
10. Casualties and Violence
While the protests have been largely peaceful in many areas, there have been reports of violence and casualties in some states. Amnesty International has reported at least 13 deaths related to the protests, although this figure is disputed by police.
The situation remains fluid, with protests continuing despite government appeals and security measures. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the demonstrations and the government's response to the protesters' demands.
