Several high-profile Nigerian politicians were reportedly seen fleeing Abuja in convoys as protests against bad governance, economic hardship, and hunger intensified in the Federal Capital Territory.
The unrest, sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the current administration’s policies, saw the capital’s streets filled with demonstrators calling for urgent reforms.
A video shared by Twitter influencer FS Yusuf seen by Dockaysworld, showed the politicians’ convoys maneuvering out of the city while protesters occupied a separate lane.
The footage which has gone viral, has prompted many Nigerians to call for protesters to block the airport to prevent the politicians from leaving the country.
Tochukwu a user on X commented: “The best protest is for 10,000 people to march to the airport and block the runway. Another 10,000 should head to the State House and National Assembly, and another 10,000 to Aso Rock—no exit, no entry. Just sit there and play songs; we will supply food.”
Imigo added, “It’s a 10-day protest, so that will definitely happen.”
Watch video below:
Politicians are running out of Abuja.
We must #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria pic.twitter.com/WOynbZmu08
— FS Yusuf (@FS_Yusuf_) August 1, 2024
On Thursday, the protests began across Nigeria, driven by soaring inflation, rising food prices, and economic instability attributed to recent governmental policies.
Demonstrators, rallying under the #EndBadGovernance banner, are demanding a reduction in petrol prices to N200 per litre, an end to insecurity, the closure of IDP camps, and comprehensive electoral reforms.
While the protest began peacefully, it has since escalated into violence in several cities.
Reports indicate that at least 21 people have been killed in clashes with security forces.
Casualties include one person each in Abuja and Kano, two in Jigawa, six in Niger, four in Borno, and three in Kaduna.
On Friday, police dispersed protesters with tear gas, leaving many injured as tensions continue to mount.
