Hunger protest: Protesters demand return of fuel subsidy – Deji Adeyanju

As economic hardship continues to hit many Nigerians, some protesters in Abuja have demanded a return of the fuel subsidy removed by President Bola Tinubu when he assumed office as president in 2023.

President Tinubu had declared that there would no longer be a petroleum subsidy as funds for subsidies would be diverted to other things like public infrastructure, education, health care and jobs.

A human rights activist and lawyer Adedeji Adeyanju, speaking at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium, said the #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria protest is against hunger, bad administration and corruption.

He said, “The demands are very simple. We want President Tinubu to bring back subsidies so that life can be bearable for people.

“It does not make any sense that the president is saving money and giving it to governors who loot the money.

“It does not make economic sense especially when food prices are so high

“So, if we bring back subsidies and cut off governance, we will be able to reduce the inflation rate.

“Also, the issues around politics have been a part-time job. It cannot be a full-time job because Nigeria is broke.

“So, the issue of cutting government expenses, cutting waste, insecurity across the country, constitution amendment and other sundry issues are part of the demands of the protest.”

Adeyanju further revealed that the protest, scheduled for 10 days, will continue until the Federal Government yields to their demands.

“The protest will last for 10 days, but if the government meets the demands, then why not…,” he added.

Meanwhile, at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium, counter-protesters stormed the premises to demand an end to the hunger protest.

According to Some protesters who spoke to our correspondent said they were there for peace and safety. However, things took a new twist when the counter-protesters lamented the increased cost of food items like Garri, Rice and others.