The ongoing protests against hardship and bad governance across the country have exposed the vulnerability of Nigeria’s economic framework and fragile security apparatus, a report by SBM Intelligence has said.
The Africa-focused geopolitical research and consulting firm stated this in a report, which assessed the first four days of the protests.
According to the report, the protests not only highlight Nigeria’s need for economic and security reforms, they emphasise the need for the government to, “address the root causes of discontent while managing complex political and social issues to ensure stability and progress.”
It further stated: “Though rooted in widespread economic and social discontent, the protests have revealed deep divisions in the country’s response to governance and civic action.
While some regions, like the Southeast, chose to abstain due to a complex mix of disillusionment and fear of government backlash, other parts of the country experienced violent confrontations, highlighting the government’s struggle to maintain control and address the root causes of unrest.”
The report said: “The protests also underscore the complex interplay between Nigeria’s economic challenges and its social stability. The public’s frustration is palpable, with inflation and unemployment reaching alarming levels.
“Yet, the government’s heavy-handed tactics, coupled with the fear of violence and the uneven distribution of security resources, have only exacerbated the situation.
The protests have not only exposed the vulnerability of Nigeria’s economic framework but also its fragile security apparatus, particularly in regions already beset by violence and instability.”