In a compelling display of frustration, Oyo State, South-West Nigeria, witnessed a protest on Monday driven by discontent over the high cost of living, food inflation, and prevailing economic hardships. Taking place in the Mokola area of Ibadan, the state capital, a multitude of placard-wielding youths voiced their concerns with chants and slogans, emphasizing demands to address food hikes and inflation.
Some placards bore inscriptions such as 'End food hike and inflation' and 'The poor is starving,' reflecting the pressing issues driving the protest. Despite the peaceful nature of the rally, armed policemen were present, following a prior warning against any breach of peace during protests issued on Sunday.
This demonstration in Oyo adds to a series of protests in various regions, including Kano and Minna, all fueled by grievances over economic hardships linked to the removal of petrol subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange windows.
President Bola Tinubu's recent orders to address food hoarding and release of grains have yet to quell public dissatisfaction, as Nigerians continue to express displeasure over the economic challenges facing the nation.