State police commands across Nigeria have heightened security at key locations ahead of the planned October 1 protest. Organizers of the #FearlessOctober1 demonstration have confirmed their intention to proceed with the protests, citing dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the fuel price hike, rising costs, and insecurity.
The protest, which organizers describe as a continuation of the #EndBadGovernance movement, aims to address the government’s failure to meet their demands. Protests are scheduled to occur in major cities like Abuja and Lagos, with other states also anticipating demonstrations.
In response, police in several states, including Niger, Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos, have deployed personnel to maintain order and prevent violence. The Nigeria Police Force emphasized the need for peaceful demonstrations while warning against any disruptions to public safety. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized the opposition for allegedly using the protest to destabilize the country, while opposition parties argue that the protests are a reflection of the widespread public discontent.
Lagos State reiterated that a court order restricting protests to designated venues still stands, advising organizers to comply with the ruling.