Diaspora Group Plans Protest Against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 79th UN General Assembly
A diaspora organization operating under the banner of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria has announced its intention to stage a protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 79th United Nations General Assembly. The event is scheduled to take place from September 10 to 30, 2024, in New York, United States.
The group expressed its deep frustration with what it perceives as the continuous suffering of the Nigerian populace under the current administration, which they accuse of corruption and mismanagement. In a statement released by representatives Austin Ikpeme and Peter Olagunju, the group articulated a series of demands that they hope to bring to the attention of the international community through this protest.
Key Demands of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Group
Among the primary demands outlined by the group are the following:
Immediate Release of Detainees: The group called for the immediate release of Bristol Isaac Tamunobiefiri, also known as PIDOM, a journalist and whistleblower, along with others who were arrested and detained by Nigerian police and security agencies during the previous #EndBadGovernance protests.
Reduction of Government Size and Dismissal of Non-Performing Appointees: The protestors demand that President Tinubu significantly reduce the size of his government by sacking appointees who have not performed up to standard. They believe that a leaner, more efficient government is crucial for better governance.
End to Corruption and Mismanagement: The group accuses President Tinubu and his close associates of looting the nation's resources and calls for an immediate end to such practices. They demand transparency and accountability in the management of the country's wealth.
Reinstatement of Fuel Subsidies: In a bid to alleviate the economic burden on Nigerians, the group demands the immediate return of fuel subsidies. They argue that the removal of these subsidies has significantly increased the cost of living, making basic necessities unaffordable for many citizens.
Improved Governance and Security Measures: The group is also calling for comprehensive governance reforms and a robust plan to tackle the persistent insecurity plaguing the country. They emphasize the need for a government that prioritizes the well-being and safety of its citizens.
Planned Protest Locations and Objectives
The #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria group has detailed its plans to protest at several key locations in New York during President Tinubu's visit. Protesters, comprising Nigerians in the diaspora and allies of the cause, will gather in front of the Nigerian House at 828 Second Avenue, New York, NY, beginning on September 15, 2024, at 9 a.m.
The group intends to make their presence felt not only at the Nigerian House but also at the United Nations Building and the hotel accommodating President Tinubu and his entourage. Through these demonstrations, they hope to draw global attention to what they describe as the kleptocratic and authoritarian tendencies of the Tinubu administration.
A Call to Action Against Corruption and Injustice
The statement released by the group paints a grim picture of the state of governance in Nigeria under President Tinubu. The group claims that corruption, human rights abuses, injustices, intimidation, killings, and widespread insecurity have become commonplace in the country.
"We can no longer stand idly by while our country and its citizens are subjected to such suffering at the hands of a corrupt government," the statement reads. The group further asserts that the current administration must be held accountable for the deaths, disappearances, and other atrocities that have occurred, particularly during the peaceful protests that have been met with violent repression.
The Broader Implications of the Protest
The planned protest by the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria group is not just about expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs in Nigeria; it is also about raising awareness on an international scale. By staging their demonstration during the UN General Assembly, the group aims to highlight Nigeria's challenges to a global audience and to put pressure on both the Nigerian government and the international community to take action.
The protest is expected to draw participants from a wide range of backgrounds, including members of the Nigerian diaspora, human rights activists, and supporters of democratic governance. The organizers are calling on all those who care about Nigeria's future to join them in their effort to demand better governance and respect for human rights.
As the date of the protest approaches, the group has reiterated its commitment to peaceful demonstration, emphasizing that their goal is to effect positive change in Nigeria through non-violent means. They hope that their actions will inspire other Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to stand up against what they see as a corrupt and ineffective government.
Conclusion
The planned protest by the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria group at the 79th United Nations General Assembly represents a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for better governance in Nigeria. The group's demands, which include the release of detained activists, government reform, an end to corruption, and the reinstatement of fuel subsidies, reflect the deep-seated frustrations of many Nigerians who feel let down by their leaders.
By taking their protest to the international stage, the group aims to amplify their message and bring greater scrutiny to the actions of the Nigerian government. Whether or not this protest will lead to meaningful change remains to be seen, but it is clear that the voices of dissent within the Nigerian diaspora are growing louder and more organized. As the world watches, the outcome of this protest could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria's future.
0 Comments