By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, surged in Rivers State on Tuesday encircling the home of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) Mr Nyeson Wike.
Poverty, hunger and public combine to fuel protests in what has now become a 10-day rage.
It took a new turn on Tueaday as protesters stormed the residence of former Governor Nyesom Wike
Observers said the escalation comes as a direct response to Wike’s staunch opposition to the protests when they erupted in the Nigerian capital, Abuja.
Now serving as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Wike’s previous condemnation of the protests seems to have added fuel to the fire in his home state.
The President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for calm promising to address the grievances of the protesters.
Despite a noticeable decrease in protest activities in the FCT, Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, is experiencing a resurgence of street processions. As the demonstrations enter their sixth day, the epicenter has shifted to Wike’s opulent mansion, drawing significant attention and amplifying the movement’s visibility.
In anticipation of potential unrest, the Nigerian Police Force has ramped up its presence around Wike’s residence, deploying additional personnel to maintain order and safeguard all involved.
The heavy police presence underscores the government’s concern over the escalating situation and its potential to spiral out of control.
The protests initially gained momentum when demonstrators besieged the Government House on the first day. During this confrontation, the protesters publicly embarrassed the current Governor, Sim Fubara. In a futile attempt to pacify them, Governor Fubara offered money for ‘pure water,’ a gesture that was met with scorn and rejection, further igniting the protesters’ resolve.
As the situation unfolds, the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests in Port Harcourt highlight the deep-seated frustration of the populace and their demand for accountability and meaningful change in the nation’s governance. The focus on Wike’s residence, one source told Irohinoodua symbolizes a broader critique of the political elite and their perceived disconnect from the everyday struggles of Nigerian citizens.
Others insist the protest is being exploited by Wike’s enemies to even score in the heated row between Wike and Fubara, his former crony.
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