Since Nigeria transitioned back to civilian rule in 1999, its citizens have frequently taken to the streets to protest against various policies and actions by their government. These protests have often centered around demands for better governance, economic reforms, and social justice
Each protest tells a story of struggle and resilience, as Nigerians continue to demand accountability from their leaders.
Right since President Tinubu was elected, Nigerians have been clamoring for better governance with no answers or the promised renewed hope. As they have decided to take to the streets to protest themed #EndBadGovernance with the ongoing counter-protest by some other Nigerians, here is a detailed look at some of the major protests that have taken place in Nigeria from 1999 to the present.
1999 - 2009
2000 - Sharia Law Protests
In northern Nigeria, the introduction of Sharia law sparked widespread protests and violent clashes. This was particularly pronounced in states like Kaduna and Kano, where the population is religiously mixed.
2003 - Anti-Fuel Hike Protests
When the government decided to increase fuel prices, labor unions and ordinary citizens organized widespread protests. These protests were marked by strikes and public demonstrations across various cities.
2005 - Occupy Nigeria (Early Protests)
These were early protests against corruption and poor governance. People across the country expressed their frustration with the pervasive corruption affecting their daily lives.
2007 - Electoral Protests
After the presidential elections, which many believed were rigged in favor of Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, protesters took to the streets demanding fairness and transparency in the electoral process.
2010 - 2015
2010 - Anti-Fuel Subsidy Removal Protests
The government's decision to remove fuel subsidies led to an increase in fuel prices, sparking national protests. These protests were significant, as they brought together a wide cross-section of Nigerian society.
2012 - Occupy Nigeria
This was a massive protest movement against the removal of fuel subsidies, which had a significant impact on the cost of living for millions of Nigerians. The protests were some of the largest and most widespread in Nigeria's recent history.
2014 - #BringBackOurGirls
This global campaign began after Boko Haram kidnapped over 200 schoolgirls from Chibok, Borno State. It led to international protests and a worldwide call for the safe return of the girls.
2016 - 2020
2016 - Biafra Agitations
Protests by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) sought the secession of the southeastern region from Nigeria. These protests were marked by significant tension and confrontations with security forces.
2017 - Anti-Buhari Protests
These protests demanded the resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari, who had been on a prolonged medical leave abroad. Protesters questioned his ability to govern effectively.
2018 - NLC Protests
The Nigerian Labour Congress organized strikes and protests demanding an increased minimum wage, which eventually led to the government agreeing to a new wage structure.
2020 - #EndSARS Protests
These nationwide protests against police brutality, specifically targeting the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), garnered significant international attention. The protests led to the eventual disbandment of SARS.
2021 - Present
2021 - #EndSARS Memorial Protests
These protests marked the one-year anniversary of the #EndSARS movement, remembering those who were lost during the earlier protests and demanding justice and accountability.
2022 - ASUU Strike Protests
University students and faculty protested over unpaid allowances and the inadequate funding of the education sector, which led to prolonged strikes by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
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