In a wave of coordinated protests tagged #EndBadGovernance, cities across Nigeria witnessed widespread shutdowns and unusually quiet streets today.
From the bustling capital of Abuja to the vibrant commercial hub of Lagos, as well as cities like Abeokuta, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Kano, businesses, and banks were closed, and roads were largely deserted.
In Abuja, the typically busy streets were eerily silent as demonstrators defied last-minute attempts by authorities to halt the protests.
A similar scene played out in Lagos, where the usual hustle and bustle gave way to empty roads and shuttered businesses.
Kaduna’s Ahmadu Bello Way, a key artery in the state’s Central Business District, was notably quiet, with no sign of the usual vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Observers noted that on a normal day, the area would be filled with economic activity, but today’s protests have brought the city to a standstill.
Owerri also experienced significant disruptions, with banks, markets, and other business establishments closed as people took to the streets.
Public transportation in several cities, including Kaduna and Port Harcourt, operated at reduced capacity, with many residents opting to stay indoors.
In Sokoto and Damaturu, there was a heavy security presence, deterring residents from participating in the protests.
In Bauchi, at a proposed protest venue opposite the School of Agriculture in Yelwan Labourer, there were no protesters, but security personnel were on hand to maintain order.
Kano presented a mixed picture: while the streets were mostly empty and shops heavily guarded, the Zoo Road area resonated with chants of “Mu yunwa muke ji,” meaning “we are hungry,” highlighting the economic grievances driving the demonstrations.
As the protests continue, the government has urged calm and dialogue, while protesters demand urgent action to address their concerns about governance and living conditions.
The situation remains fluid, with many eyes watching how it will evolve in the coming days.