A coalition of Nigerian activists, labour leaders, and civil society organisations has vowed to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and close ranks in a united struggle against what they describe as the country’s oppressive ruling elite, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The commitment was made during the one-year anniversary symposium of the #EndBadGovernance protests, held in Lagos State on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
The event, which took place at the International Press Centre, Ogba, was organised by the Lagos chapter of the #EndBadGovernance movement in collaboration with the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC).
Speakers included trade unionists, human rights advocates, academics, and socialist organisers, who all emphasised that the fight against poverty, corruption, and anti-people policies remains “non-negotiable.”
In a communiqué signed by one of the organisers, Ibrahim Duroorike, participants unanimously hailed the August 1–10, 2024 #EndBadGovernance demonstrations as a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
The protests, which were sparked by worsening economic hardship and surging living costs, drew thousands nationwide despite intense security crackdowns.
“The resilience of the protesters proved that the people ultimately have the power to hold the ruling elite accountable,” the communiqué stated.
The gathering condemned what it described as the “brutal and violent” suppression of peaceful demonstrators, highlighting arrests, detentions, and loss of lives.
They also celebrated the July 24, 2025 court ruling in Lagos which upheld the protesters’ right to peaceful assembly — a decision described as a landmark victory for civil liberties.
Delegates noted the absence of a genuine, mass-based political alternative, accusing all major political parties of representing “local and international capitalist interests.”
They criticised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) for failing to actively support the protests, despite solidarity from individual workers at the grassroots.
A resolution was adopted to establish a Committee for Unity aimed at harmonising progressive demands, shifting from spontaneous demonstrations to sustained community mobilisation.
Plans were also unveiled for a radical political intervention in 2027 — either through the creation of a new party or the reform of an existing one — alongside continued legal defence for activists facing prosecution, with a mass turnout planned for the October 9 court session of detained protesters.
Delegates stressed that ending bad governance would require dismantling capitalism and building a democratic socialist Nigeria with the economy under public ownership and control.
They agreed on a “minimum programme” including free quality education, universal healthcare, and decent living standards for all citizens.
Paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the protests, participants declared that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was “a giant with clay feet,” insisting that ultimate political power rests with the people.
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