Ahead of the much-anticipated second phase of the #EndBadGovernance protests scheduled for October 1, prominent activist Omoyele Sowore has laid out 17 non-negotiable demands for the Nigerian government.
The demands are part of a renewed effort to address the country’s deep economic crisis, worsening governance problems and widespread public discontent.
Sowore, who has been at the forefront of the movement, stressed that the demands were formulated based on extensive input from Nigerians actively engaged in the campaign. The list addresses a broad spectrum of concerns, reflecting the growing frustrations of citizens from all walks of life.
Key demands include the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained during the initial #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place from August 1 to 10. Protesters are also calling for the unfreezing of assets belonging to those who participated in the demonstrations, as well as adequate compensation for the hardships endured during the peaceful protests.
Sowore also called for the removal and prosecution of several high-ranking officials, including the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Bernard Igwe, and the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The activist accused officials of playing a central role in the violent crackdown on legitimate protests, resulting in the deaths of peaceful protesters and the unlawful detention of many, including minors.
The demands also push for major structural changes, such as the immediate elimination of the 1999 Constitution and its replacement with a new Constitution promoted by the people through a sovereign National Conference followed by a national referendum.
They also propose to abolish the Senate, transform the House of Representatives into a part-time legislative body and institute a new minimum wage of at least N250,000 per month for Nigerian workers.
Another crucial aspect is education reform, with calls for significant investment in the sector, the provision of scholarships instead of student loans, and the implementation of free and compulsory education for all children across the country.
Further demands include the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other political prisoners, the renationalisation of state-owned enterprises previously sold to government cronies, and the restoration of a corruption-free subsidy regime to alleviate hunger and poverty.
The activist also called for the prosecution of corrupt Nigerian leaders past and present, with the recovered funds earmarked for education, healthcare and infrastructure development. They are calling for the restructuring of Nigeria to ensure better representation of its diverse population, an end to banditry and terrorism and comprehensive reforms in the security sector.
Other notable demands include the creation of a Special Energy Fund to promote the development of the energy sector, the reconstitution of the National Electoral Commission of Nigeria (INEC) to eliminate corruption, a massive public works and industrialization program to create jobs for the youth, and a major overhaul of the judicial system to remove corrupt judges and ensure access to justice for all Nigerians.
Protesters are also demanding the right to vote for the diaspora, stressing the need for a more inclusive and democratic electoral process.
As the October 1 protests approach, these demands set the stage for a potential turning point in Nigeria’s governance. The government’s response to these far-reaching demands will be closely watched, as citizens hope for meaningful change to address the country’s pressing challenges. [GWG Except headline]
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