October 1 Protests: Mixed Reactions as Police Enforce Venue Restrictions

The upcoming October 1 nationwide protests, aimed at addressing national issues, have sparked mixed reactions across the country. While some traders and residents oppose the demonstrations, calling for caution, groups like the Arewa Youths and former Niger Delta warlord, Godday Smith, are advocating dialogue as a more constructive approach.

Tensions have been rising between protest organizers and law enforcement, with the police warning against unlawful acts during the protests, which are set to coincide with Nigeria’s Independence Day. The protests have raised concerns among traders and business owners, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, who fear disruptions to commercial activities and potential threats to public safety. Traders have urged the organizers to avoid their businesses, warning that past protests have led to vandalism and theft.

Chief Raphael Okorie, Chairman of the FCT Markets and Plazas, expressed concern over the risk of hoodlums hijacking the protest. He emphasized that while traders understand the grievances, the safety of their businesses remains paramount. “When these hoodlums take over, our members are the victims. We urge the protesters to stay away from our businesses.”

In contrast, the Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence called for dialogue instead of demonstrations. Speaking in Abuja, the group’s chairman, Comrade Mark Ogah, urged young people to reconsider protesting and instead engage in peaceful discussions with the government. “Protests can lead to riots and disrupt economic activities, which could worsen the situation. We propose constructive dialogue to address national issues.”

Similarly, Godday Smith, a former Niger Delta warlord, urged ex-agitators in the region to avoid participating in the protest, stressing the importance of peace for development. “Where there is peace, development thrives. We should focus on maintaining peace to foster the growth of our region.”

Meanwhile, security agencies are preparing to manage the protests, with Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olanrewaju Ishola, emphasizing that protests in Lagos would be restricted to Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park in Ojota. The police, along with other security agencies, have pledged to protect peaceful demonstrators while ensuring that the protests are not hijacked by criminal elements.

Mr. Dapo Amao, Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Lagos, supported citizens’ right to protest but stressed the need for a peaceful and civil approach. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also vowed to collaborate with other agencies to maintain peace, urging protesters to respect the rights of others.

As the protest date approaches, the tension between demonstrators and security forces is expected to increase, with many hoping for a peaceful resolution.