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In the heart of Nigeria, a cripping crisis is unfolding, with the skyrocketing cost of living at its core. At least four lives have been lost as Security Forces clash with protesters, who are taking to the streets to denounce soaring food prices. A youth-led movement has initiated 10 days of demonstrations, calling attention to the government's handling of what many are calling Nigeria's worst economic downturn in decades. DW's Christine Mundwa brings us this report from Lagos.
What is it like when the very fabric of daily life is threatened? When the ability to put food on the table becomes a daily struggle? These are the questions echoing through the bustling cities of Nigeria as thousands pour into the streets in protest. For 30 years, Nigeria hasn't seen a living cost crisis this severe. Food and fuel prices are soaring, and the blame is placed squarely on the government's shoulders.
The poverty in Nigeria is not just skin-deep; it's a festering sore eating away at the nation's soul. Corruption is unchecked, and the cry of the people is loud and clear: "We are hungry." As an exhausted health worker laments, "I can't even fend for my family, not because I'm not hardworking, but because our money has no value."
Since taking office last May, President Bola Tinubu has introduced economic reforms that have left many struggling to maintain their purchasing power. The cost of living crisis has been exacerbated over the past year, driven by two major policy changes: the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate of the naira to the dollar and other major currencies. This strange combination has sent prices soaring and left the country's budget in tatters, with expenses far exceeding income.
Despite the dire situation, the government continues to spend hundreds of millions on the salaries and perks of politicians. President Tinubu came in with a tough stance, removing subsidies and calling for sacrifice from Nigerians, yet the allocation for governors has tripled with no accountability. The National Assembly has grown fatter and richer, living at the expense of the people. This is why the rallying cry is "End Bad Governance," although the turnout was significantly lower than the protests that brought the south of the country to a standstill in 2020.
Why the low turnout? A heavy police presence at the main protest location in Lagos, with officers from various units, has deterred many. Fear of violent dispersal by the police has kept some away, but organizers vow to continue their demonstrations despite the intimidation tactics. However, in the northern Kanu state, a curfew has been imposed after police fired live bullets, hot water, and tear gas at demonstrators, claiming that the protests had been hijacked by thugs.
As Nigeria grapples with this crisis, the question remains: How long can the people endure before their voices are heard and their suffering alleviated? The struggle continues, and the world watches with bated breath.
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