The recent protest against hardship in Ibadan, southwest Nigeria, shows that Nigerians, including the police, can peacefully conduct themselves during demonstrations. 

Development Diaries reports that the prices of staple foods have risen 100 percent as inflation continues to ravage the Nigerian economy, and many citizens can no longer bear the suffering, hence the protests.

While the people of Oyo State should be commended for engaging in peaceful protests to press home their demands, other Nigerians can learn from this development on the importance of peaceful protests.

Peaceful protests are important in allowing you, citizens, to express your grievances, advocate for change, and hold your government accountable.

In Nigeria, peaceful protests are constitutionally guaranteed, and you are encouraged to participate in governance for the greater good of the country.

Peaceful protests are an avenue for you to voice your concerns and demand corrective measures from your leaders.

When a significant portion of the population rallies in peaceful protests, it signals to policymakers the urgency and magnitude of public sentiment, compelling them to take action or engage in dialogue to find solutions.

Moreso, since peaceful protests are protected under Nigeria’s constitution as a fundamental right of every citizen to freedom of expression, assembly, and association, be willing to exercise this right.

Development Diaries calls on Nigerians to continue to ensure that protests remain peaceful and within the bounds of the law to effectively achieve their objectives. We also call on the Nigerian police to ensure that they provide security for protesters as they exercise their rights.

Photo source: Premium Times