Organizers of the nationwide protest scheduled for October 1 are calling on the Nigerian Police Force for adequate security measures. This request comes from a coalition that includes the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Movement for Fundamental Change (MFC), Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), Joint Action Front (JAF), and Pan-African Consciousness Renaissance (PACOR-Nigeria).

At a press conference on Thursday, Hassan Soweto, the national coordinator of the ERC, encouraged Nigerians to join in peaceful protests against what he termed “anti-poor policies.” In Lagos, the demonstration is set to kick off at 7:30 a.m. at the Ikeja underbridge, with participants marching through various streets to raise awareness of their cause.

The organizers specifically asked Olanrewaju Ishola, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, to ensure the safety of protesters in line with the Police Establishment Act of 2020. They reminded the police of their responsibility under Section 83 (4) of the Act to provide security for citizens engaging in public demonstrations.

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The statement highlighted the urgent need for the Tinubu administration to address the protesters’ concerns, warning that further demonstrations would occur if their demands continue to be ignored. The coalition urged Nigerians to keep opposing anti-poor policies, noting that their previous demands from August have not been addressed.

Criticism was directed at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government for prioritizing lavish spending over the needs of citizens. Organizers cited the recent surge in fuel prices, which has escalated to between N900 and N1,900 per litre, compared to less than N200 per litre two years ago. This situation has led to unbearable living conditions, with inflation and rising food prices adding to the hardships faced by many Nigerians.

In light of these issues, the #EndBadGovernance Movement has declared October 1, 2024, as the “National Day of Survival.” They are urging Nigerians from all backgrounds to participate in peaceful protests against the hardship, poverty, and hunger exacerbated by policies such as fuel price hikes, increases in electricity tariffs, school fee escalations, and the devaluation of the naira. Additionally, they are demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all #EndSARS and #EndBadGovernance protesters, as well as detained journalists, whistleblowers, activists, and others affected by state repression.