Hunger Protest Organizers Suspend Demonstrations in Lagos and Osun States

 

Organizers of the hunger protests in Lagos and Osun states have announced the suspension of further demonstrations, marking a temporary halt to their ongoing campaigns.

In Lagos, the decision to suspend the protests for 24 hours was made following a congress held in Ojota. The protesters decided to pause their activities after President Bola Tinubu’s recent speech failed to address their key demands. Hassan Soweto, one of the organizers, conveyed that the suspension will last until the next planned action, which is a rally to honor those who lost their lives during the protests. The rally is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2024, and has been designated as Martyrs' Day. Soweto also reported that shortly after the congress, some individuals attacked the protest group, further complicating the situation.

In Osun State, the organizers have chosen to suspend their protests in deference to the ongoing Osun-Osogbo Festival. Mr. Ajala Adetunji, the coordinator of the protest, explained that the decision was made to ensure a peaceful celebration of the festival and to address security concerns. The influx of tourists for the festival and the potential for disruptive elements posing as festival-goers were cited as key factors in the decision to halt the protests temporarily.

Meanwhile, a Lagos High Court extended an earlier order restricting protests in the city to Freedom and Peace Parks located in the Ojota and Ketu areas. Justice S.I. Sonaike issued the extension following an application from the Lagos State Attorney-General. The extension is set to remain in effect until full compliance with the court's protocols is achieved, with a return date scheduled for August 29, 2024, for further directives.

The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) has criticized President Tinubu for not addressing the economic hardships faced by Nigerians. In a statement, CDWR’s National Publicity Secretary, Bosah Chinedu, denounced the increase in petrol prices, electricity tariffs, and school fees, calling for the reversal of these policies, which they argue have exacerbated poverty and suffering across the country.