Protests Erupt in Nigeria Amid Economic Crisis, Leading to Deaths and Arrests

At least nine people have been killed in clashes between Nigerian security forces and protesters demonstrating against the country's economic crisis, according to a rights group. The protests, centered around food shortages and allegations of misgovernment, have sparked violence and looting in some areas.

Protests erupted across Nigeria over the country's worsening economic crisis, resulting in multiple deaths, injuries, and arrests. The demonstrations, triggered by food shortages and accusations of government mismanagement and corruption, have raised concerns about the stability of Africa's most populous nation.

Protests Erupt in Nigeria Amid Economic Crisis, Leading to Deaths and Arrests

According to a rights group, security forces have clashed with protesters, leaving at least nine people dead. One police officer was also killed during the unrest. The situation escalated when a bomb blast in the conflict-hit northeastern state of Borno killed four people and injured 34.

In response to the violence, the Nigerian military threatened to intervene to quell any further disturbances. However, rights groups have condemned the use of excessive force by security personnel. Amnesty International's Nigeria director, Isa Sanusi, stated that witnesses, victims' families, and lawyers have independently verified the deaths.

Protests Erupt in Nigeria Amid Economic Crisis, Leading to Deaths and Arrests

The protests have mainly focused on the lack of food and alleged misgovernance in Nigeria, where public officials are among the highest-paid in Africa. This contrast stands in stark contrast to the country's widespread poverty and hunger despite being a major oil producer.

The cost-of-living crisis, the worst in a generation, has been exacerbated by surging inflation and government economic policies that have weakened the local currency against the dollar. Protesters carried placards, bells, and the Nigerian flag, chanting demands for the reinstatement of gas and electricity subsidies that were canceled as part of economic reforms.

Violence and looting were concentrated in Nigeria's northern states, which are most severely affected by hunger and insecurity. Dozens of protesters were seen fleeing with looted goods, including furniture and cooking oil.

The police chief, Kayode Egbetokun, maintained that officers aimed to ensure peaceful conduct during the protests. However, he acknowledged that in some cities, the demonstrations escalated into mass uprising and looting.

Rights groups and activists disputed the police chief's claims, arguing that security forces deliberately used tactics designed to kill. They also noted that the level of force used was unjustified by the level of threat posed by the protesters.

The Nigerian government fears that the protests could escalate into a replay of the deadly 2020 demonstrations against police brutality or similar to the chaotic tax hike protests in Kenya last month. However, experts believe that the excessive force used by security forces could provoke further unrest.