On October 1st, 2024, Lagos witnessed a significant protest as members of civil society groups, led by Omoyele Sowore, took to the streets to demand relief from the rising hardship in Nigeria. The protest, tagged the Fearless October1stProtest, focused on key issues, such as a reduction in petrol prices and calls for immediate government action to ease the suffering of Nigerians.
The protest was initially peaceful, with two groups converging at Ikeja Underbridge and Freedom Park in Ojota. The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Olanrewaju Ishola, commended the orderly conduct of the protesters. Despite a police order to restrict activities to designated locations, the Ojota protesters defied this directive, blocking part of Ikorodu Road.
In Ikeja, the protest gained momentum as marchers passed through Awolowo Way and Allen Avenue before joining the group in Ojota. One of the protest’s key organizers, Hassan Taiwo Soweto, emphasized that the group would remain non violent, even in the face of provocation from security forces.
The atmosphere was charged when Omoyele Sowore, leader of the Take It Back Movement, joined the protest in Ikeja, sparking jubilation among the protesters. His presence further energized the movement as the crowd made their way to Ojota.
Commissioner Ishola, in a statement to the press, praised the protesters for maintaining peace and reassured them that the police would continue to ensure criminals do not exploit the demonstration for unlawful activities. The heavy police presence, particularly in Ojota, was intended to monitor the situation closely and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
As the protest progressed, all groups eventually converged at Freedom Park, where they remained under the watchful eye of security personnel. With the promise of remaining peaceful, the demonstrators showed a resolve to make their voices heard without descending into chaos, sending a powerful message to the Nigerian government.
The October 1st protest serves as a reminder of the growing frustration among Nigerians over the economic challenges and the urgent need for the government to address these concerns.