The gathering underscored the unifying potential of protests as a platform for dialogue, advocacy, and reform, reinforcing the importance of active civic participation in democratic governance. Photo: Julian
The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has unveiled a landmark report, “Beyond the Protests… Towards Governance Reforms after EndBadGovernance”, highlighting the transformative power of protests in shaping a nation’s socio-political evolution.
The 130-page report, presented at an event in Abuja, is the culmination of a comprehensive study that examines the complexities, drivers, and implications of protests in Nigeria. The report emphasizes the critical role of civic action in advancing governance reforms, advocating human rights and driving sustainable societal change.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the Nigeria Police Force, the National Human Rights Commission, and academic institutions.
pivotal role protests
Mr. Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, set the tone for the event by acknowledging the pivotal role protests such as #EndSARS and #EndBadGovernance have played in Nigeria’s recent history.
According to Idowu, these movements transcend expressions of dissatisfaction, acting instead as powerful catalysts for societal transformation.
“Protests are not merely about dissent; they are a testament to the resilience and power of civic engagement in shaping our nation’s future. They serve as a mirror reflecting the collective demands of the people for good governance, accountability, and justice,” Idowu stated.
He emphasized that the findings of the report are not just academic but practical. “Our goal is to use these insights to inform policy decisions, guide advocacy campaigns, and inspire ordinary citizens to take an active role in promoting good governance, social justice, and human rights,” he said.
From Protest to Policy
Delivering the keynote address titled “From Protest to Policy: Charting Governance Reforms in Nigeria”, Professor Adetunji Ogunyemi, described protests as fundamental to the sustenance of a liberal democratic society. He argued that protests are not only tools for public mobilization but also essential mechanisms for holding governments accountable and driving societal reengineering.
“Protests reflect dissatisfaction but also represent the democratic privilege of citizens. They are a call to action for governments to listen and respond to the needs of the people,” Ogunyemi noted. He, however, stressed the need for orderly conduct during protests to prevent degeneration into chaos, emphasizing that no society prospers in anarchy.
contributions of women
Dr. Abiola Akinyode-Adejobi, Executive Director of WARD C, brought attention to the often-overlooked contributions of women in protest movements. She cited the BringBackOurGirls campaign as a significant example of women-led civic action that has shaped governance narratives in Nigeria.
“There is a pressing need to document the impact of women in these movements, not just for historical purposes but to inspire future generations. Women have been pivotal in advocating for justice, equity, and governance reforms,” Akinyode-Adejobi said.
She further advised that for protests to achieve their desired impact, demands must be clearly articulated, and organizers should prioritize building public trust and maintaining transparency.
Challenges
Mr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, shed light on the challenges posed by government workers involved in regime protection. He noted that such practices often undermine justice delivery and frustrate the commission’s efforts to uphold human rights.
Represented by an official of the commission, Ojukwu reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting human rights and clarified that children under the age of seven are not criminally liable for participating in protests. He stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment where civic engagement can thrive without fear of retribution.
Police Stance on Protests
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Mr. Muyiwa Adejobi, reaffirmed the police’s commitment to upholding the right to peaceful assembly. Represented by ASP Victor Isuku, Adejobi stated that the police only intervene in protests when intelligence reports indicate potential threats to public peace.
“We recognize the importance of protests in a democratic society and will not hinder lawful demonstrations. Our interventions are solely to prevent disruptions to public order,” Adejobi explained.
Key Takeaways from the Report
- Historical Context: The report traces Nigeria’s protest culture back to the colonial era, illustrating its enduring role in shaping governance and civic identity.
- Social Media Amplification: The transformative role of social media in mobilizing and amplifying civic voices is a recurring theme, emphasizing its power in modern protests.
- Policy Implications: The findings provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, including the need for governments to address protest demands promptly and transparently.
- Women’s Contributions: The report calls for greater recognition and documentation of women’s roles in protests, urging policymakers and civil society to ensure gender-inclusive narratives.
- Youth Participation: The study highlights the central role of young people in driving civic movements, urging stakeholders to create platforms that empower and support youth engagement.
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