A statement attributed to Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate and activist, has called for a nationwide shutdown and advised Nigerians to stockpile food in preparation for prolonged protests against bad governance. Sowore, a prominent figure in the #EndBadGovernance movement, urged Nigerian workers and transporters to join the protests, which have been ongoing since last week Thursday.

“We must continue to protest and demand good governance from our leaders,” Sowore said in the statement. “I advise everyone to stockpile food and prepare for a prolonged shutdown.”

However, Comrade Awa Bamiji, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Pro-Democracy Groups for a Better Nigeria, has countered Sowore’s statement, describing it as an “evil desire” and accusing him of advocating for a military takeover.

“Understanding the real meaning of #10 days of rage Protest or #RevolutionNow, he had long been advocating, unlike millions of his innocent followers, he hurriedly travelled out of the Country few days to the commencement of the #TinubuMustGo, #EndBadGovernance, #TinubuMustGo Protest,” Bamiji said.

Bamiji’s group also accused Sowore of hypocrisy, pointing out that he had left the country just before the protests began. “He hurriedly travelled out of the country few days to the commencement of the protests, which commenced last week Thursday with chaos, mass looting, maiming, killings and burning of public and private properties,” Bamiji said.

The protests, which have been marked by chaos, looting, and violence, have resulted in the loss of lives and properties. The government has responded by arresting protesters, with some facing criminal charges.

“Protest or not, the legal procedure is that anybody that perpetrated criminal activities in our community must be arrested by the law enforcement agencies and prosecuted in the court of law,” Bamiji said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has addressed the nation, describing the removal of fuel subsidies as a “painful decision” but necessary for the country’s economic survival. “It came as a lifeline,” he said.

However, the opposition has criticized the move, with some accusing the government of insensitivity to the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

As the situation continues to unfold, Nigerians are bracing themselves for further protests and potential unrest. The government has urged calm and promised to investigate the violence and looting that has accompanied the demonstrations.

“We appreciate our respective and responsible President for answering our collective call for his intervention and address as well as delivery of a beautiful speech at most needed period in political history,” Bamiji said.

However, it remains to be seen whether the government’s efforts will be enough to calm the situation and address the grievances of the protesters.