#EndBadGovernaceInNigeria protest floors economic activities in Lagos

The countrywide protest, aimed at highlighting a range of socio-economic issues, has nearly halted economic activities in Lagos State.

On their regular sanitation day, which occurs every Thursday and concludes by 10 am, local traders participated as usual.

However, coinciding with the start of the protest, the typically vibrant markets remained closed afterward. Our reporter noted that key markets in areas such as Ikotun, Egbeda, Iyana Ipaja, Dopemu, Akowonjo, and Ayobo were all shut down.

Similar scenes were observed in Ikeja, Agege, and Ojota. A handful of traders were seen lingering around market locations while waiting to see how events would unfold.

One trader named Emmanuel shared with our correspondent that the market’s closure was a direct result of the protest.

We plan to reopen our stores, but not just yet, he stated. We’re still monitoring the situation regarding the protest. Another trader, who wished to remain unnamed, mentioned, A lot of us did not participate in the sanitation exercise.

Our main focus is ensuring the safety of our market. According to our correspondent, banks and gas stations in these areas were also shut down. Some residents were seen gathered in their neighborhoods discussing recent events.

Additionally, a significant security presence was noted in these locations as officers were stationed at key spots. The protest named Days of Rage is scheduled to take place nationwide from August 1 to 10.

Nevertheless, prominent government officials, organizations, and religious groups—including the Christian Association of Nigeria and both the Lagos chapter of the Muslim Student Society of Nigeria and Muslim Rights Concern—have urged for the protest to be canceled due to concerns that it might be taken over by individuals with harmful intentions for the nation.