At least three protesters were killed in Nigeria’s Kaduna state on Thursday during demonstrations against the rising cost of living and governance issues, according to Reuters reporters and eyewitnesses. The protests, which spread across the West African nation, reflect widespread discontent with economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Kaduna state police spokesperson Mansur Hassan stated that police used teargas to disperse protesters, not live ammunition. Similar tactics were employed in the capital city Abuja, where teargas was used to break up crowds. Protests also took place in Lagos, the commercial capital, and several other cities, with demonstrators voicing frustration over soaring inflation and economic hardships.
The unrest is partly inspired by recent protests in Kenya, which led to the government reversing planned tax hikes. In Nigeria, protesters are demanding the reinstatement of fuel and electricity subsidies, free primary and secondary education, and increased measures to address insecurity. In Lagos, armed police monitored the protesters as they marched towards government buildings, with some shopping malls closing and being guarded by a heavy police presence. In Abuja, the military set up roadblocks, while some protesters gathered at a stadium.
Youth in Maiduguri, a city affected by a militant insurgency, also joined the demonstrations despite heavy security. The protests highlight growing frustration with Tinubu’s economic reforms, which include fuel subsidy removals, currency devaluation, and increased electricity tariffs. These measures have driven inflation to a new 28-year high of 34.19% as of June.
In response to the protests, Tinubu has signaled openness to dialogue and recently signed a new minimum wage law to help workers cope with the economic strain. However, many Nigerians, including the unemployed and self-employed, remain deeply affected by the escalating costs and insecurity.
In other news – Gogo Maweni celebrates bridal shower ahead of wedding to Sabelo Magube
Traditional healer and reality TV star Gogo Maweni recently enjoyed a heartfelt bridal shower, marking a joyful prelude to her upcoming wedding with long-term partner Sabelo Magube. The celebration followed their traditional wedding ceremony, adding a touch of glamour and excitement to their journey toward matrimony.
The bridal shower, a surprise organized by Maweni’s friends, was a heartwarming event that left her deeply moved. Despite a busy schedule filled with back-to-back consultations that saw her finish work at 10:30 p.m., Maweni was overjoyed to come home to the surprise celebration. Read More
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