Breaking News: Protesters Set to Hit the Streets on June 12 over Hunger, Hardship
A coalition of Nigerian civil societies has announced a mass protest set to take place on Wednesday, June 12, to voice their discontent with the prevailing hardship and hunger under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. Lagos Reporters has learned that the participating groups in this planned protest include the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB), African Action Congress party (AAC), Joint Action Front (JAF), Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Socialist Workers and Youth League (SWL), and PRP Vanguard.
In their joint statement titled “Enough is Enough to Hardship and Hunger, Great Nigerian People,” the organisations have expressed their deep concern over the sharp rise in the prices of essential commodities since May 29, 2023, when President Tinubu eliminated fuel subsidies. According to the coalition, the average Nigerian is now struggling to afford basic necessities such as food, transportation, electricity, and school fees.
"The current situation is dire, and people are finding it increasingly difficult to feed themselves and their families. Hardship and hunger have become the norm, pushing our youth towards crime and other desperate measures. Meanwhile, those responsible for our plight are living in luxury, siphoning Nigeria's resources for their own benefit," the statement read.
The protesters have specifically pointed fingers at President Tinubu, the First Lady, the First Son, government officials, and business elites such as Aliko Dangote, accusing them of exploiting Nigeria's resources at the expense of its citizens.
The coalition of civil societies has called on all Nigerians to join them in the mass protest on Wednesday to demand accountability and a change in policies that prioritize the welfare of the people. Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the developments surrounding the planned demonstration.