Sowore Leads Protest Against Bad Governance as Nigerians Call for Change on Independence Day

As Nigeria marked its 64th Independence Day, several citizens, disillusioned with the current state of the nation, took to the streets to protest against bad governance.

Among the key figures in the demonstration was former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore.

Protesters gathered in Lagos at the Ikeja Underbridge, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with messages such as

“Reverse electricity tariff now,” “Reduce petrol price to N197 per liter,” and “End all attacks on democratic rights.”

 The protest, organized by civil society groups like the Take It Back Movement, the Education Rights Campaign, and the Socialist Workers League, follows the #Endbadgovernance protest held from August 1 to 10.

Demonstrators are voicing their frustration over issues such as rising fuel prices, worsening inflation, insecurity, and what they describe as government wastefulnes.

“This protest is the only way to let the government know we are tired of the struggle and want real change,” said one of the organizers.

 Security agencies, including the Lagos State Police Command and officials of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, closely monitored the peaceful protest to ensure there was no breakdown of law and order.

Sowore emphasized that the protest is not just about voicing discontent but about demanding a government that listens to the people:

“The Nigerian people have suffered enough, and our government must realize that their promises need to translate into real relief for the citizens.”