Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate and well-known human rights activist, has reiterated his firm resolve to move forward with the nationwide protest scheduled for October 1, 2024, despite the Federal Government's warnings. The protest, which aims to highlight the severe economic and social difficulties faced by the Nigerian populace, is set to take place at Eagles Square in Abuja and simultaneously in various parts of the country.
The planned protest is a direct response to the escalating challenges of insecurity, hunger, poverty, and economic hardship that many Nigerians have been experiencing under the current administration. Sowore, who has long been an outspoken critic of the government, confirmed the protest on his social media platforms on Monday, stating that there would be no retreat from the movement. His decision to proceed with the protest comes after warnings from the Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies, which have expressed concerns about potential unrest and safety risks.
Sowore, who appears to be one of the principal organizers of the October 1 protest, assured the public that the demonstrations would be peaceful. He expressed his determination to ensure that the protest remains non-violent, despite the government’s fears that it could lead to disruptions. According to Sowore, the nationwide protest is an expression of the deep dissatisfaction felt by Nigerians toward the government's failure to address key issues that have left millions in despair. He highlighted the recent hikes in petrol prices, the sharp devaluation of the naira, and the skyrocketing cost of living as the main reasons behind the protest.
In a statement shared on his social media account, Sowore explained that the protest would take place across all regions of Nigeria, given the widespread devastation caused by the current administration’s policies. He argued that the protest was necessary to draw attention to the plight of ordinary Nigerians and challenge the government's inability to resolve pressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and insecurity.
Sowore further emphasized that the protests would be peaceful, stating, “We are not here to create violence or disorder. Our mission is to speak truth to power and make sure that the Nigerian government hears the voices of its people. The issues we are raising affect all Nigerians, regardless of their location, tribe, or political affiliation.”
He stressed that no threat of force or intimidation from the authorities would deter the movement from its objectives, and he reassured the public that the protests would proceed as planned. “We will not be discouraged by warnings from the government. Our protest is a peaceful expression of our democratic right to hold the government accountable,” Sowore said.
He also pointed to the troubling state of security in the country, mentioning how bandits have taken over large parts of the country, displacing communities and instilling fear in the population. Sowore also raised concerns about recent natural disasters, such as the floods that have ravaged many parts of Nigeria, leaving thousands of citizens homeless.
The activist questioned the government’s ability to manage these crises, asking, “How can anyone expect Nigerians not to protest when their government has failed them so thoroughly?” He underscored that the failure to address these critical issues is part of what has prompted the October 1 protest. Sowore predicted that the demonstration would see participation from thousands of Nigerians who are ready to express their dissatisfaction with the government’s policies.
Despite the warnings from the Federal Government and Nigerian Police Force, which have cited concerns over public safety, Sowore remains undeterred. He stressed that the protest is not intended to cause chaos but rather to send a clear message to the government about the urgent need for change.
He concluded by saying, “We are fully ready. Our organizers are already working on the ground, and we are not afraid to stand up for what we believe in. These are revolutionary times, and Nigerians will make their voices heard starting from 7 a.m. on October 1.”
The planned protest on October 1 is expected to be one of the largest demonstrations against the government's economic and social policies, with participants from all over Nigeria. Sowore’s leadership of the movement has already garnered significant attention, and the activist has made it clear that this is just the beginning of a series of actions aimed at holding the government accountable.