On Nigeria's 64th Independence Day, thousands protested in Lagos and Abuja against high living and energy costs. The demonstrations, part of the "FearlessInOctober" movement, called for the reversal of controversial government policies. Activist Omoyele Sowore joined demonstrators demanding accountability amid soaring inflation and economic hardship.
On October 1, 2024, as Nigeria marked its 64th Independence Day, thousands of protesters took to the streets in Lagos and Abuja to express their frustration over soaring living and energy costs. The demonstrations, dubbed “FearlessInOctober,” were a response to ongoing economic hardship, prompting citizens to demand that President Bola Tinubu's administration reverse several “anti-people policies.”
In Abuja, demonstrators congregated in the Utako area, waving the national flag and holding placards with slogans like “EndBadGovernance” and “EndHighLivingCosts.” Meanwhile, in Lagos, protests erupted at the popular Ikeja UnderBridge, causing significant traffic disruption. Protesters there also carried banners with messages such as “Hunger Dey” and called for the reversal of the government’s neoliberal policies.
The rally in Lagos featured notable activist Omoyele Sowore, who led the crowd toward Gani Fawehinmi Park, further amplifying their demands. Despite warnings from the government and security forces, similar protests occurred across other states in Nigeria, showcasing widespread discontent over the rising costs of living and energy.
Critics attribute the financial crisis to the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates, policies implemented by Tinubu since taking office on May 29, 2023. In his Independence Day address, Tinubu acknowledged the struggles faced by Nigerians and requested patience as his administration worked on economic reforms aimed at alleviating the burden on citizens.
