Organisers of the October 1st protest have declared their intention to proceed with demonstrations at Eagle Square, Abuja, on Independence Day, despite warnings from security agencies.
The protest, spearheaded by prominent activist Omoyele Sowore, is focused on opposing the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic policies causing hardship for Nigerians.
Although the police have issued warnings against holding the protest, the Organisers assert their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and have formally requested security measures to ensure the safety of participants.
In a letter addressed to the Inspector General of Police, the protest leaders reiterated their plans, emphasising that no legal grounds exist to stop the event. They have also stated their determination to proceed, regardless of any threats from law enforcement authorities.
The protest will coincide with Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations, a significant symbolic moment for Organisers to voice their grievances against the government’s economic policies.
Despite the police’s opposition, the group maintains that peaceful protests are essential in a democratic society and intend to mobilize participants from across the country.
Organisers are calling for urgent reforms to address the situation, which they argue disproportionately affects the poorest Nigerians.
In response, police authorities have issued statements advising against participation, citing concerns about potential disruptions to public order.
However, Sowore and other protest leaders have made it clear that the demonstration will be peaceful and is intended to draw attention to pressing national issues, not to incite violence.
The insistence on holding the protest at a high-profile venue like Eagle Square, which is often associated with government events, sends a strong message of defiance to the authorities.
This stance underscores the Organisers’ commitment to ensuring that their voices are heard on the national stage, irrespective of the government’s position.
As the protest date draws near, the public awaits to see whether the authorities will allow the event to proceed without interference or whether further tensions will arise between the protestors and security forces.
