UN Issues Warning To Nigerians Amid Nationwide Protests

UN Issues Warning To Nigerians Amid Nationwide Protests

The United Nations (UN) Department of Safety and Security has issued a warning regarding the upcoming planned protests in Nigeria, cautioning that these demonstrations could be exploited by various groups with hidden agendas……. CONTINUE READING

Reports circulating on social media indicate that several Nigerian groups intend to stage nationwide protests from August 1 to 10, termed “10 days of rage,” aimed at addressing the country’s economic hardships and soaring cost of living.

In its threat and risk assessment, the UN expressed apprehension over potential violence, citing past instances where similar protests in Nigeria have escalated. It pointed out the February 13–16, 2023 period, during which tensions stemming from financial crises led to violent demonstrations in states across the South-East and South-South regions, including Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo, Imo, Kwara, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, and Rivers. These protests resulted in vandalism of bank branches, ATM points, and blockage of major roads.

“With expectations of high turnout for the ’10 days of rage’ protest, significant disruptions to normal economic and social activities cannot be ruled out,” the UN’s threat assessment cautioned.

The assessment further highlighted the potential for clashes between pro-government groups and dissenting factions leading up to August 10–15.

“While acknowledging widespread economic hardships, some organizations and ethnic leaders, particularly in the South-South and South-East regions (such as the socio-cultural group Ọhanaeze Ndigbo representing Igbo interests), have discouraged participation in the August 1–10 protests,” the UN noted.

This assessment underscores concerns that the protests could be co-opted by external groups or detractors, complicating security dynamics in various areas across Nigeria.