Police officers had a collision in Abuja after firing teargas at demonstrators during the "Fearless in October" protest held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. The protest, organized to highlight concerns about poor governance, took place at the Utako area of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The protesters, mostly young people, displayed banners with inscriptions such as "End Bad Governance," "Diaspora Voting," and "End High Living Costs." While peacefully waving the Nigerian Green-White-Green flag, the crowd was dispersed by police intervention.
This latest protest mirrors the "End Bad Governance" demonstrations held in August, as both share common themes. Protesters demanded the reversal of key policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu's administration, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and the increase in electricity tariffs.
These twin policies have contributed to soaring inflation and energy costs, with many Nigerians experiencing severe economic hardship. Since Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, the cost of petrol has skyrocketed from around ₦200 to over ₦1,000 per litre, while electricity tariffs have quadrupled, heavily affecting the manufacturing sector and ordinary citizens.
During Nigeria's 64th Independence Day address earlier on Tuesday, Tinubu acknowledged the nation's economic challenges and pleaded for patience. He expressed sympathy for the struggles caused by his government's reforms but reassured citizens that efforts were underway to reduce the cost of living. Tinubu emphasized that his administration was refining its economic policies for the benefit of all Nigerians.
As the "Fearless in October" protest unfolded, it became a powerful symbol of the growing dissatisfaction among citizens who are bearing the brunt of economic hardships.
