The #EndBadGovernance protest on Thursday saw a notably low turnout in the Abeokuta and Ijebu-Ode areas of Ogun State.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the event, it was observed that many residents continued their daily routines, with businesses open as usual, while banks in Abeokuta’s metropolis remained closed.
The Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, designated as a venue for the protest, was largely empty, except for a significant presence of security forces, including the Police, Nigerian Army, and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The subdued turnout follows an order from the Ogun State High Court on Wednesday, which limited the protest activities to four specific locations in the state. The court’s decision also restricted the protests to a timeframe between 8 am and 5 pm.
The designated locations included MKO Stadium in Abeokuta, Ansar-ud-Deen Comprehensive High School in Ota, Remo Divisional High School in Sagamu, and Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode.
Additionally, there were reports of soldiers stationed at key locations throughout the state capital to prevent any potential disturbances.
At approximately 11:20 am, around 20 protesters arrived at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, carrying placards and chanting slogans critical of the government.
Their messages highlighted various grievances, including calls to end bad governance, concerns over food inflation, and demands for improved infrastructure in Ogun State, particularly the repair of roads.
The protesters emphasized that their actions were intended to draw attention to the challenges Nigerians face and to urge the government to address these pressing issues.