Let’s talk about the recent #EndBadGovernance protests that have rocked our nation. It’s been a tumultuous time, with emotions running high and frustrations boiling over.
But amidst all the chaos, there’s one fact we can’t ignore: 16 people have reportedly lost their lives. Sixteen needless deaths. How did we get here, and more importantly, how do we move forward?
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room. The deaths were absolutely needless. It’s heartbreaking and infuriating.
Our security agents should never have resorted to lethal force and if it is true that one policeman lost his life, then the protesters shouldn’t have resotrted to lethal force also.
These were our brothers and sisters, out there fighting for a better Nigeria, or protecting lives and properties. They should have been met with de-escalation tactics and non-lethal means.
Tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets—anything but live rounds. We need to ask ourselves why our security forces seem more trained to shoot than to negotiate and calm things down.
We need to remember that these protesters were exercising their constitutional rights. They were standing up against bad governance, corruption, and the lack of basic necessities.
Their demands were simple and just—better leadership, transparency, and accountability. In a country rich with resources, it’s unacceptable that the average Nigerian still struggles with basic needs like electricity, clean water, and healthcare.
But let’s not put all the blame on the security forces. We need to look inwards too. Yes, we have every right to protest and demand better governance, but we should do it peacefully.
Looting and destroying properties not only tarnish the cause but also hurt our communities.
When shops are looted and businesses are burned down, it’s our neighbors who suffer. It’s their livelihoods going up in smoke.
Violence begets violence, and that cycle is something we need to break.
Now, where was the government in all this? Honestly, it feels like they were caught flat-footed. The government should have done more to protect lives and properties during these protests.
Deploying security forces with a clear mandate to protect and not to provoke could have made a huge difference.
Also, ensuring that there are safe spaces for protesters to gather and express their grievances peacefully could have helped in avoiding these deadly confrontations.
But let’s cut to the chase. Protests like #EndBadGovernance don’t just happen out of the blue.
They are a symptom of deeper issues—years of bad leadership, corruption, and a lack of empathy from those in power.
Our leaders need to step up and be the change we desperately need.
Transparency in governance, genuine efforts to tackle corruption, and most importantly, empathy towards the citizens are what will truly end these protests.
Leaders should listen to the cries of the people and rule with a heart. It’s not just about policies and politics; it’s about the people those policies affect.
When leaders show they care, genuinely care, about the wellbeing of their citizens, it builds trust. And trust is something that’s sorely missing right now.
So, where do we go from here? We need to hold our leaders accountable, yes, but we also need to hold ourselves to a higher standard.
Peaceful protests, responsible actions, and a collective effort to build a better Nigeria.
It’s time for a change, and that change starts with empathy, transparency, and a commitment to good governance from those in power.
Sixteen lives lost. Sixteen families grieving. Let’s honor them by ensuring their deaths were not in vain.
Let’s push for the Nigeria we all deserve—one where governance is good, leadership is empathetic, and the people are united in peace. Together, we can make it happen.
It’s crucial to keep the conversation going. Share your thoughts, engage in discussions, and most importantly, stay peaceful.
We owe it to those 16 souls and the countless others who have suffered due to bad governance. Let’s work together to create a Nigeria that future generations can be proud of.
So next time you see a protest or hear about one, remember why they’re happening. Remember the voices calling for change, and remember the power we hold collectively.
The future of Nigeria is in our hands. Let’s make it a future worth fighting for—peacefully, but firmly.
Together, we can make it happen. Let’s #EndBadGovernance for good.
