Following the hardship in Nigeria, residents of Ibadan, Oyo State, took to the streets on Monday morning to voice their grievances against the economic challenges stemming from the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The protest, primarily led by youths, commenced in the Mokola area of Ibadan, with demonstrators blocking major thoroughfares including the Mokola under-bridge and the Queen Elizabeth Road. As a result, traffic congestion ensued in several parts of the city.

Chant such as ‘E bi n pawa (We’re hungry)’ reverberated through the streets as protesters brandished placards bearing messages like ‘Open Border, End Hardship’, ‘End food hike and inflation’, and ‘The poor is starving’. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, armed police officers were stationed at the scene to forestall any potential disorder.

Similar protests have recently taken place in various places such as Minna and Suleja, major commercial hubs in Niger State, indicating widespread discontent with the prevailing economic conditions. Protesters demanded immediate action from President Tinubu’s government to alleviate the hardship and soaring inflation, particularly decrying the surge in prices of essential commodities such as gas and fuel.

Responding to the demonstrators, Yakubu Garba, Deputy Governor of Niger State, acknowledged the pain and distress experienced by families across the country. He assured them that the government was actively pursuing measures to mitigate the cost of living and address the economic repercussions of removing the petrol subsidy.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) announced plans for a two-day nationwide mass protest on February 27 and 28, underscoring the depth of frustration and dissatisfaction prevailing among Nigerians regarding the current economic climate.