NIGERIA: A FASCIST COUNTRY’s REACTION TO A FIGHT AGAINST OPPRESSION
By Ebojie Areban Okojie
In reaction to the protests against widespread hunger and suffering, the authoritarian regime of Bola Ahmed Tinubu has chosen to charge young Nigerian citizens with treason. It is disheartening that instead of tackling the nation’s urgent challenges—hunger, insecurity, inflation, and a faltering currency—this government has prioritized the prosecution of 76 minors and young adults for the ‘grave offense’ of voicing their frustrations regarding these issues during protests in August 2024.
Reports indicate that four of the detained individuals fainted in an Abuja courtroom today after enduring 90 days of detention. The inadequate nourishment they faced during this time stands in blatant violation of child protection and fundamental human rights standards.
It is tragic that authorities displayed such a lack of compassion by continuing the proceedings despite the dire health conditions of these young individuals, when providing medical care and food should have been the logical course of action.
Furthermore, it has come to light that the trial has been postponed until January 2025. Given their current state, it is a grim possibility that these citizens may be brought to court in coffins.
The Nigerian Correctional Services, alongside the Attorney General of the Federation, must take immediate action to guarantee proper care and support for these individuals. This alarming situation underscores the systemic failures that prompted the initial protests.
Meanwhile, instead of pursuing justice against terrorists and corrupt individuals who have severely weakened the nation, the government is targeting children for treason simply because they expressed their hunger.
It is imperative for the Nigerian government to focus on resolving economic challenges rather than suppressing its most vulnerable
The protests in Nigeria stem from a convergence of critical socio-economic and political challenges that have left many citizens feeling disenfranchised and desperate for change. Here’s a deeper look into these issues:
1. Hunger and Poverty: Nigeria faces one of the highest rates of hunger in the world, with millions classified as food insecure. Factors such as poor agricultural policies, conflict in farming regions, and the impact of climate change have significantly hindered food production. Many families struggle to afford basic meals, leading to widespread malnutrition, especially among children.
2. Insecurity: The nation has been plagued by terrorism, particularly from groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated organizations, as well as kidnappings for ransom and banditry. These threats not only endanger lives but also disrupt livelihoods, displace communities, and instill a pervasive sense of fear that undermines daily life.
3. Inflation and Economic Hardship: Nigeria has experienced soaring inflation rates, pushing the cost of essential goods and services beyond the reach of many citizens. The depreciation of the naira and economic policies that fail to address the concerns of the average citizen have exacerbated financial strain. Many are unable to meet their basic needs, sparking further unrest.
4. Education Crisis: The country suffers from a significant educational deficit, with inadequate investments in schools, teacher training, and educational materials. Millions of children, particularly in the northern regions, are out of school, which adversely affects the country’s development and ability to reduce poverty in the long term.
5. Corruption and Mismanagement: Corruption remains deeply entrenched in Nigerian politics and governance. Resources that could be used for public welfare are often misappropriated, leading to underfunded infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems. This pervasive corruption fuels public anger and disillusionment with the political elite.
6. Lack of Accountability and Political Discontent: The failure of government officials to be held accountable for their actions, coupled with a lack of transparency in governance, has led to widespread distrust among citizens. Many believe that the political class is out of touch with the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians, contributing to a demand for reforms.
7. Youth Disillusionment: A significant portion of Nigeria’s population is young, and many express frustration over their lack of opportunities, leading to a sense of hopelessness. The youth are often vocal in their desire for change, feeling that their voices are ignored in the political discourse.
The combination of these interconnected issues has created an environment ripe for protests, as citizens seek to demand justice, accountability, and a better standard of living. The outcry is a plea not only for immediate relief but for systemic change that addresses the root causes of their grievances.
