October 1st: Sowore Leads Independence Day Protest in Lagos

Omoyele Sowore, the former African Action Congress presidential candidate, joined the ongoing protest in Lagos State on Independence Day. Arriving at the protest site under the Ikeja Bridge at 8:50 a.m.,

Sowore, one of the key organizers, spoke to the press, highlighting the significance of the protest in Nigeria’s journey toward the “promised land.”

Sowore described the protest as a rejection of the government’s Independence Day celebrations, questioning if Nigerians had not already given the government enough chances.

He referenced the alleged mismanagement of additional time by former President Muhammadu Buhari, which, according to Sowore, only resulted in higher fuel prices, increased darkness, and further enrichment of the ruling class.

“We are taking one of the actions necessary to lead us to the promised land. We held a protest in August, and today, we are rejecting their version of independence because we seek our own freedom,” he said.

He added, “Haven’t we given enough chances? Time is up. We extended time, and Buhari misused it, buying jets and houses, while increasing fuel prices and pushing us further into hardship. They gave us minimum wage while they raised their own maximum wage. They should resign if they truly understand the people’s suffering.”

The protest coincided with Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration and drew a heavy security presence, including police officers, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.