The ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria, aimed at urging the leadership to address the skyrocketing prices of food items, have taken a unique turn in the South-East region.
Unlike other parts of the country where physical demonstrations and marches are prevalent, the South-East has seen a complete boycott of such activities.
This divergence is largely attributed to warnings from various Igbo leaders and groups, including the apex socio-political group Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which dissuaded participation due to fears of potential backlash and property damage.
In cities like Awka, traditional protest sites such as Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square were deserted on August 1st and subsequent days. Instead, residents engaged in alternative forms of protest.
Youths formed football teams and played soccer on deserted streets, while others gathered in beer parlours to drink and make merry. One youth, Ejike, explained, "We are here to do our own protest since they said today is set aside for protest. Market did not open, so we have to do our own protest here."
Prominent figures like Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, also called for a boycott, warning that participation could lead to accusations against the Igbo community.
The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, commended the South-East for heeding these calls, noting that it prevented loss of lives and property.
Governor Soludo of Anambra State took a proactive approach by launching an agricultural initiative to combat food inflation, emphasizing self-reliance over waiting for government intervention. His efforts, along with youth empowerment programs, were credited with keeping the state's youths occupied and away from protests.
The National President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, highlighted the historical marginalization of the Igbo people, stating, "Now, simply because some people are not comfortable with the government, they want to drag all of us into it; never again shall we be made scapegoats in this country."
In contrast, other regions like Kaduna experienced massive unrest, with protesters looting and waving Russian flags, demanding President Bola Tinubu's resignation. The state government imposed a 24-hour curfew to restore order.
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