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Protest or no protest, we are all the losers

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Protest or no protest, we are all the losers

By Kalu Onuma

In the face of widespread societal issues such as hunger and bad governance, the announcement of a planned protest set to commence tomorrow, August 1, 2024 across the nation, has catalyzed a heated discourse among citizens, activists, and government officials. The essence of democratic society lies in the ability of its people to express their grievances and advocate for their rights. However, the unfolding scenario reveals a tangled web of miscommunication, misunderstanding, and mutual distrust. From the complex situation of things today, it is evident that irrespective of the protest’s outcomes, the ultimate losers might be the society as a whole — citizens and government alike.

In every democracy, protests serve as the voice of the voiceless, the instrument through which the populace can express dissatisfaction, challenge the status quo, and demand change. The planned protest, stands as a reflection of a society grappling with profound issues that affect its very fabric. Yet, in the labyrinthine interplay of political maneuvers and civic activism, one might ponder: protest or no protest, aren’t we all the losers?

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The planned protest against hunger and bad governance, points to a stark reality that cannot be ignored any more – the voice of the people must be heard. However, amidst the anticipation and dire circumstances faced by the populace, the response from the government has been disconcerting, showcasing a lack of understanding and empathy towards the plight of its citizens.

Under the Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) government, a continuation of failed policies from previous administrations has only served to exacerbate the issues at hand. Instead of steering the ship towards progress and prosperity, the government’s missteps and lack of vision have further plunged the populace into hardship and despair.

The undercurrent of dissatisfaction has been swelling for years, fed by persistent hunger and endemic bad governance. Hunger, a stark indicator of economic disparity, reflects the failure of social safety nets and the inefficacy of policies meant to bridge the gap between the have and have-nots. On the other hand, bad governance manifests through corruption, nepotism, and a lack of accountability, eroding public trust in institutions. These twin maladies have catalyzed the forthcoming protest.

The planned protest is primarily a response to pervasive hunger and poor governance. Citizens across various demographics have voiced their frustration and helplessness, citing the inability to afford basic necessities and the government’s failure to address systemic corruption and inefficiency. The rising cost of living, unemployment, and dilapidated infrastructure have all contributed to a general sense of despair among the populace. For these individuals, taking to the streets represents not just a call for immediate relief but a demand for systemic change.

One glaring example of the government’s ineptitude is its handling of the economy. With rising inflation rates, unemployment, and a widening gap between the rich and the poor, the administration’s economic policies have failed to provide much-needed relief to the masses. The lack of sustainable and inclusive economic programs has only deepened the cycle of poverty and destitution for many.

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Furthermore, the government’s approach to governance and accountability has been riddled with corruption and inefficiency. Cases of embezzlement, mismanagement of public funds, and lack of transparency have eroded the trust of the people in their leaders. Instead of serving the interests of the citizens, the government seems more preoccupied with self-serving agendas and maintaining the status quo.

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In addition, the issue of hunger and food insecurity has reached alarming levels under the current administration. Despite promises of agricultural transformation and food security initiatives, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Many Nigerians continue to struggle to put food on the table, with inadequate access to basic necessities and skyrocketing food prices pushing them further into poverty.

The government’s reaction to the impending protest has largely been marked by defensive rhetoric and veiled threats, casting a shadow over its intent and ability to engage constructively. Officials’ verbal and body language have come across as dismissive and antagonistic, further fueling public anger. Statements emphasizing the potential for violence and disruption, coupled with a heavy security presence, have only served to escalate tensions and create a climate of fear. This approach, rather than fostering dialogue and understanding, has alienated the very citizens it seeks to govern.

It is really disheartening, to say the least, to witness the government’s response—or lack thereof—to the crisis at hand. The verbal and body language of the government have been spectacularly off the mark, revealing a profound disconnect between the ruling class and the aggrieved populace. Instead of empathy and proactive measures, the government has often resorted to defensive posturing and superficial reassurances.

In public statements, officials have downplayed the severity of hunger crises, in some instances trivializing the lived experiences of millions who struggle to put food on the table. Such remarks not only amplify the chasm between the government and the governed but also betray a shocking insensitivity to human suffering. This verbal miscalculation extends to assurances of combating bad governance, which remain largely unfulfilled as corruption continues to pervade the system.

As the planned protest looms on the horizon, it is clear that the root causes of discontent and disillusionment run deep. The government’s failure to address the pressing needs of its people, coupled with its indifference to their suffering, only serves to highlight the urgent need for change and reform. The protesters are not just raising their voices against hunger and bad governance; they are fighting for a better future for all Nigerians.

As citizens prepare to take to the streets, it is essential to recognize that protests are a double-edged sword. They are both a powerful means of expression and a potential catalyst for unintended consequences. The protest against hunger and bad governance is not merely a demonstration of dissatisfaction; it is an urgent plea for survival and dignity. However, the act of protest brings with it risks and repercussions that could ripple across the societal spectrum.

These protests can potentially disrupt daily life, leading to economic losses and, in worse cases, violence and chaos. The socioeconomic structures, already fragile due to poor governance, could further deteriorate. Businesses might close, public spaces could become battlefields, and the very fabric of communal harmony might be strained to its breaking point. The volatility of such unrest often leads to a vicious cycle where the original problems are compounded by the collateral damages of civil unrest.

The protest’s outcome, regardless of its success or failure, will leave lasting scars on society. A peaceful demonstration might bring about much-needed reforms and a renewed sense of hope, but it could also spark further unrest and polarization if the government remains unresponsive. Conversely, a violent crackdown, while suppressing the immediate threat, will further erode public trust and deepen societal divides. The potential for violence, destruction, and loss of life hangs heavy in the air, casting a dark shadow over the future of the nation.

The crux of the matter lies in the failure of leadership to understand and address the root causes of discontent. The government’s body language—infamous for its rigidity and disconnection—mirrors its verbal gaffes. There is an apparent reluctance to engage meaningfully with the populace, to listen genuinely to their grievances, and to implement enduring solutions.

This intransigence erodes the social contract, wherein the governed entrust the governance with the mandate to ensure their wellbeing and security. With each dismissive remark and hollow promise, the trust between the rulers and the ruled frays further. The erosion of this trust is a loss for everyone: a populace that feels unheard and uncared for, and a government perceived as incompetent and unresponsive.

Whether the protest proceeds with fervor or fizzles out in the face of governmental obstinacy, the collective loss is monumental. For the oppressed, the loss is felt in the continuation of their plight—hunger remains unassuaged, and governance continues to stumble. For the government, it is the lost opportunity to rebuild trust, to mend the divide, and to steer the nation towards genuine progress.

Moreover, society at large suffers an erosion of social cohesion and a degeneration of public discourse. The animosity between divergent factions—the disillusioned citizens and the defensive state—fragments the nation, making collaborative progress increasingly elusive.

To reverse the tide of this shared defeat, a radical shift in approach is required. The government must shed its veneer of indifference and actively engage with the populace. Acknowledging the severity of hunger and committing to transparent, effective governance are critical first steps. Structural reforms, aimed at providing social safety nets and rooting out corruption, must be prioritized.

Likewise, the citizenry needs channels for constructive dialogue and peaceful expression. Civic leaders and protesters must articulate their grievances and demands with clarity, ensuring that the message is not lost in the potential tumult of street demonstrations.

In the delicate balance of Nigeria’s democratic governance, the planned protest against hunger and bad governance is both a beacon of hope and a harbinger of potential peril. The current trajectory, marked by governmental apathy and civic frustration, portends a lose-lose outcome for all. It is incumbent upon both the state and its citizens to strive for a symbiotic relationship wherein grievances are heard, responses are considered, and progress is shared. Only through such genuine engagement can we transition from a landscape of loss to one of collective prosperity.

Ultimately, the solution lies not in protest or repression, but in genuine dialogue and collaboration. Both the government and the people must recognize the urgency of the situation and prioritize the well-being of all citizens. The government needs to address the root causes of hunger and corruption, ensuring inclusivity and transparency in its governance. Citizens must engage constructively, expressing their grievances while remaining committed to peaceful methods.

The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but finding common ground is not impossible. A shared commitment to dialogue, empathy, and a collective vision for a better future can help bridge the divides and build a society that truly serves the needs of all its citizens.

In conclusion, whether the protest materializes or not, one thing remains certain – we are all the losers in a system that neglects the needs of its citizens and prioritizes self-interest over the common good. It is time for the government to listen, learn, and take decisive action to uplift the nation from its current state of despair. Only then can we truly move towards a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow for all.

  • Agbeze Ireke Kalu Onuma, a storyteller and cultural curator, writer, public speaker, and strategic consultant, lives in Lagos

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