Businesses Reopen After States Contain Protests.
On Monday, businesses across Nigeria began reopening despite ongoing protests against the country’s cost-of-living crisis. The protests have drawn significant participation, with hundreds of demonstrators continuing to express their grievances.
The government, both at the federal and state levels, employed various strategies to manage the unrest. This included a mix of persuasive measures and force. The Department of State Services (DSS) arrested individuals in Kano for alleged “treason” related to producing and distributing Russian flags. The police also reported the arrest of 873 people across the country in connection with the protests.
In Lagos, some businesses resumed operations, although customer turnout was lower than usual, likely due to lingering fears of unrest. Markets and shops reopened, and government offices in areas like Alausa, Ikeja, resumed operations. However, security presence remained heavy in some parts, and certain banks and businesses continued to operate cautiously.
In the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), businesses also reopened but with precautionary measures, including adjusted operating hours and restricted access. The security presence was strong, especially around key government buildings, to prevent the spread of protests beyond designated areas.
The National Security Council, led by President Bola Tinubu, met to discuss the situation. The Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, warned that any attempts to use the protests to push for a change of government would not be tolerated, branding such actions as treasonous. The meeting highlighted concerns that the protests, which began peacefully, had escalated into violence and looting in some areas, particularly in states like Kano and Kaduna.
Overall, while normalcy is slowly returning to business operations, the protests continue to be a significant point of tension in Nigeria, with authorities keen to prevent any further escalation.
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