Omoyele Sowore, a key figure behind the #EndBadGovernance movement, has announced a set of 17 non-negotiable demands ahead of the second phase of protests scheduled for October 1.
The protests, which aim to address widespread hunger, economic hardship, and governance issues in Nigeria, come in response to growing discontent among Nigerians.
Sowore, a prominent activist and organizer, revealed that the demands were shaped by input from Nigerians participating in the campaign. The list covers a range of critical issues, from human rights to economic reform, and reflects the frustrations of many citizens.
Key demands include the immediate and unconditional release of individuals detained during the initial protests, along with the unfreezing of protesters’ assets and fair compensation for those affected. The removal and prosecution of key government figures, including the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and FCT Commissioner of Police, Bernard Igwe, is also called for due to their roles in suppressing legitimate protests.
Sowore’s demands also touch on broader structural reforms, such as scrapping the 1999 Constitution in favor of a new, people-driven document, abolishing the Senate, and instituting a N250,000 monthly minimum wage for Nigerian workers. Education, too, is a focal point, with calls for heavy investment in the sector and the provision of grants, not loans, to students.
Other significant demands include the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other political detainees, renationalization of publicly owned enterprises, and a massive shake-up in the judiciary to remove corrupt elements.
The protest organizers are also pushing for an end to banditry, terrorism, and violent crimes, alongside reforms in the security sector. There is a strong call for restructuring Nigeria to better reflect its diversity and decentralize power.
With these demands, Sowore and his fellow protesters hope to initiate meaningful change in Nigeria and address the deep-rooted issues plaguing the nation. As the October 1 protest date approaches, all eyes will be on how the government responds to these sweeping demands.
