Anger at police violence remains strong in Nigeria, and despite the repression of the anti-crime group, middle-aged and upper-class youth in the largest cities in the south of the country refuse to line up. The protests continue and the marchers’ slogans are now openly directed at Nigerian political elites.
with our correspondent in Lagos, Moses Gomis
Last Monday, the authorities in Abuja strengthened the protection of places of power. Police have crossed the center of the capital, and the army reinforced this police presence, especially around the main axes leading to the districts of the ministries, the National Assembly, the embassies and the central bank.
Protesters have been playing cat and mouse all morning with security forces trying to prevent them from occupying certain places. But Lagos airport and several major roads have been blocked by young people.
“It’s not hunger that makes me cry in the street! I am demonstrating on behalf of my future children who have not yet been born … If we continue like this in Nigeria, the next generations will have nothing to eat! ”, Launches a protester in a group blocking traffic in Jabi, a commercial residential area not very far from the city center.
As a 42-year-old, this is the first time Joshua dared to block traffic in this part of the street in the capital. He feels strong, relieved to be able to express years of frustration like Grace, log in hand and determined not to be silent anymore. “I’m angry … I’m so angry, how can we be in a country and live without peace, without ever being happy? Without any moment of happiness to share? The price of fuel has risen again, it will continue … And for food? A 50 kg bag of rice can now be bought for an amount equivalent to 80 euros. No security! Our lives are worthless here in Nigeria! ”
They are almost a thousand people, most under the age of 30, in their eyes, the Nigerian political class. And especially Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian president. “We demanded the end of this anti-criminal group on the first day, launches terrified Prince Ironsi The president said nothing, the second day he said nothing, the third day he said nothing … The president is deaf, he does not hear us … Because he allows citizens to be brutalized, Muhammadu Buharide should resign ”.
There is little police presence in this district of Jabi, while less than 10 km as the crow flies, the army and police are deployed around the presidency, parliament and central bank.
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