Hardship in Nigeria: Breaking Point?

Nigeria is a nation with a rich cultural tapestry and vast economic potential which is grappling with an array of challenges that have culminated in widespread hardship for its citizens. From economic struggles to social unrest, the complexities of Nigeria’s current situation are deeply rooted. Of all the failings, economic hardship appears to have taken the cake as murmurs and bouts of outcry have sprouted all around the country.

The inflation rate in Nigeria rose to 29.90% in January beating the 28.9% of December 2023 and market projection. The country has witnessed a hike in the prices of basic commodities and a decrease in the purchasing power of the currency. All this coupled with mismanagement of resources and corruption, has led to a lack of economic diversification and widespread poverty.

This economic hardship has fueled discontent among the population, giving rise to disruptive protests. The EndSARS movement, initially sparked by police brutality soon metamorphosed into howls of protests against the country’s governance and unending hardship. Aside the EndSARS protests, Nigeria has seen a series of demonstrations in the past. From the Aba women’s riot to the June 12^th protests against former military dictator, Sani Abacha, the citizens of Nigeria are not new to the use of the democratic tool in demanding their constitutional rights, fair legislation, inept leaders, or even speaking up against oppressive rules. Most recently, though, Nigerians have taken to social media and the streets to lament the steadily depreciating value of the naira and the dip in the standard of living. Protests have sprung up in Kano, Niger and Oyo states.

Protests arise as a result of government neglect, lack of basic amenities or oppression. National leaders are often found to be out of touch with the grim reality of Nigerians. It is not unheard of that while millions of Nigerians are living in squalor, surviving barely on a dollar per day, Nigerian leaders and politicians are living their best lives, too high to see what is going on below them.

The wrath of the masses is heightened by the lack of government transparency. The country’s leadership claims to be aware of the situation and is doing something about it. But, for a country that is no stranger to hardship, Nigerians seem to have reached their breaking point. The demonstrations thus far are geographically sparse. Nevertheless, the possibility of a more cohesive protest lingers on the horizon.

Disruptive protests in Nigeria often develop as a response to social injustices and a lack of responsiveness from the government. In such an environment, protests become a potent tool for the voiceless to be heard and demand accountability. However, the murmurs of discontent are not only from a sect this time. All age groups are heavily affected by the hardship that has riddled the country.

The disruptive nature of these protests also poses challenges. Instances of violence, looting, and clashes with security forces can escalate tensions and hinder the original message of the protests. The government’s response to such demonstrations has sometimes been heavy-handed, leading to further unrest and deepening the cycle of grievances.

It is crucial to recognise the underlying causes of the hardships faced by Nigerians and address them comprehensively. This includes implementing economic reforms, tackling corruption, and fostering inclusivity in governance. Sustainable solutions require a collaborative effort from both the government and civil society to rebuild trust and pave the way for positive change. In navigating these challenges, there is an opportunity for dialogue and engagement between the government and the people. Meaningful reforms, transparency, and genuine efforts to address the root causes of hardship can help alleviate the tensions that drive disruptive protests.

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture where the choices made in response to its current challenges will shape its future. Harnessing the energy of its population for constructive change, coupled with responsible governance, can lead to a more resilient and prosperous nation. The journey towards stability and prosperity requires a collective commitment to addressing systemic issues, fostering unity, and building a foundation for sustainable development.