The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, a coalition of over 70 civil society organizations, has expressed deep concern over the country’s deteriorating living conditions and general state of affairs. In a statement issued on October 10, 2024, the group warned that if urgent remedial actions are not taken by the government, the situation may lead to further despair among citizens and potentially disorder in society.
Economic Challenges
The country’s economy is struggling with galloping inflation, largely due to poorly thought-out policies, including the simultaneous deregulation of the oil sector and foreign exchange. Nigerians are confused about the state of crude oil production, contracts, and prices, as well as the status of the government’s refineries. The failure to provide promised buffers, such as mass transport buses, has worsened the economic situation and increased hunger among citizens.
Democratic Elections and Civic Space
The President’s posture on elections has raised concerns, particularly with the nomination of individuals with partisan backgrounds to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The security agencies’ attempts to constrict civic space, including arrests of citizens, protesters, journalists, and labour leaders, have also been criticized.
Calls to Action
The Situation Room demands that the President:
- Engage in dialogue with citizens on policy direction
- Fulfil promises to implement interventions alleviating citizen suffering
- Publicly commit to electoral reform
- Condemn and act against disregard for laws by those entrusted to implement them
- Stop indiscriminate arrests of citizens
The group also calls on the Federal Government to propose steps to reduce leakages and waste of public resources, halt tax increases, and harmonize multiple taxes.
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