For weeks, the #EndBadGovernance Protest captured the attention of many Nigerians.
The protest reflects widespread frustration over economic hardship and governance issues.
Despite this, the turnout for the protest, which was scheduled to run from August 1 to 10, has been lower than expected in several states.
Various factors may explain why fewer Nigerians are participating lower than anticipated.
1. Government Intervention
Several actions have been taken by President Bola Tinubu and his government to address some of the protestors’ complaints.
Furthermore, among these are the implementation of ₦50,000 stipends for young people in the Niger Delta.
He also stopped food import taxes and the supply of rice at discounted prices.
Un fortunately, Nigerians have not started feeling the effect of these policy changes.
Also, it is possible that these actions lessened the pressure on some residents to take part in the protests.
2. Security Concern
The fear of protests being hijacked by thugs can discourage participation.
Also, the potential for violence or unrest can make people reluctant to join the demonstrations.
Warnings from influential figures like Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, who advised against bringing the protests to the Niger Delta, can deter participation in specific regions.
Such warnings can have a chilling effect on the enthusiasm of potential protesters.
3. Police And Government Pressure
The Inspector General of Police’s order for organisations to provide their information in order to guarantee peaceful protests.
This may have been interpreted as a tactic of monitoring or intimidation.
It may also discourage people from taking part.
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Proactive Measures by Traditional Rulers
The President’s emergency meetings with Islamic scholars and traditional rulers may have persuaded community leaders to discourage their supporters from taking part in the protests.
4. It is Just The First ‘Day Of Rage’
Globally, protests that often grow to become something that would force the government to make ‘people-reaching’ reforms start with low turnout.
As the momentum rises and peace is perceived, more people will join and amplify the voice.
In 2012, during Goodluck Jonathan’s regime in Nigeria, a protest was held to push for return of pertol subsidy.
President Jonathan had annoucned a removal, forcing prices up.
The protest of that year began as what you would call mere pressure, and it rose to become a reason the government cut back on cost of petrol.
This is just the first day of the ‘Days of Rage’ protest and the following days will prove if history repeats.
