By Isah Aliyu Chiroma
In many instances, protests are entwined with political maneuvering, where opposition forces amplify issues as a strategic tool to gain an upper hand. To grasp the full scope of these protests, one must delve into the political nuances and the inevitable clashes among protesters driven by varied agendas.
The country’s religious and ethnic diversity adds another layer of complexity, often turning protests into ethnic or religious confrontations and diverting attention. Political actors frequently exploit these divisions, using propaganda to incite violence.
In 2020, for example, there was spotlight not only police brutality but also broader discontent with governance and systemic corruption. Political entities often leverage these protests, either by bolstering them to destabilize the incumbent government or by infiltrating them to undermine their credibility.
An undeniable feature of Nigerian protests is the internal conflict among demonstrators. These disputes often stem from divergent objectives, methods, and affiliations. During the #EndSARS protests, while the central aim was to end police brutality, factions within the movement disagreed on broader goals and strategies. Some called for immediate governmental reforms, while others demanded mayhem and the ousting of a democratically elected president.
With social media abuzz with calls for protests, various political actors have articulated their desired outcomes, though some motives seem genuine, others are veiled in a facade of populist agitation. For instance, the AAC presidential candidate recently demanded the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, despite divergent opinions on his involvement in the chaos during the EndSARS protests. Other party candidates have remained silent on the issue, though certain fervent supporters have threatened disorder in recent viral clips on X.
Moreover, the presence of infiltrators and paid agitators further complicates the situation. These elements can be introduced to create chaos, undermine the protests’ legitimacy, and justify government reaction.
Understanding and respecting fundamental rights, both one’s own and those of others, is crucial for maintaining peace and harmony during these demonstrations. The faith in Nigeria’s security personnel to maintain peace and order remains unperturbed.
