Wike Holds Meeting With Tinubu As Tension Escalates In Abuja During Protest

As nationwide protests kicked off on Thursday, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike was spotted at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

At around 4:00 pm local time, the former Rivers State Governor alighted from a black Toyota Prado SUV and entered the President’s office. The discussion topic remains undisclosed, but it is likely related to the ongoing protests in the capital. Wike did not address journalists after the meeting.

Amid the protests that began on August 1, massive demonstrations were seen in the FCT, with crowds gathering in the central business district and suburbs. Security officials used tear gas to disperse protesters. Thugs wielding sticks and throwing stones at motorists were observed within the Abuja metropolis.

Eagle Square, the proposed protest venue, had a heavy security presence with armed personnel barricading the route to the Presidential Villa. Our correspondent narrowly escaped as thugs hurled stones and chanted anti-government slogans.

Nigerians are protesting the rising cost of living, according to organizers. The protest, tagged #EndBadGovernance, has gained traction on social media and is scheduled to occur in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is facing severe economic challenges. President Bola Tinubu, upon taking office 14 months ago, ended petrol subsidies to save funds for infrastructure and unified foreign exchange rates to curb currency arbitrage. However, these policies led to a significant devaluation of the naira and soaring food prices. Additionally, widespread insecurity in farming communities has displaced farmers, further driving up food costs.

The protest mirrors similar demonstrations in Kenya, which experts suggest may have inspired Nigerians.