Food prices have surged across major markets in Nigeria as citizens engage in panic buying ahead of the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest starting today, according to reports.
Despite last-minute attempts by the Federal Government to halt the protest, organizers are determined to proceed, demanding a reduction in the high cost of living and the reversal of harsh policies like the removal of the petrol subsidy. This policy change, coupled with security issues in farming regions, has led to increased transportation costs and food inflation.
In a late effort to prevent the protest, several government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, held press conferences urging Nigerians to avoid the protest and opt for dialogue.
The government highlighted various initiatives aimed at improving living conditions, such as a new minimum wage and support for local governments.
Nonetheless, fear of potential violence and movement restrictions spurred many Nigerians to stockpile groceries, causing prices of staple foods like rice, beans, yams, and noodles to rise for the fourth time in 2024.
The upcoming protest has been a major topic of discussion, with officials cautioning against it due to the risk of it being hijacked by criminals.
Photo credit:TGNews
