“We Are Hungry,” Nigerians chant in protest on Independence Day

In an Independence Day protest, Nigerians hit the streets in Abuja and Lagos, chanting, “We are hungry.”

In Abuja and Lagos, hordes of protesters venting displeasure over the cost of living hit the streets as Nigeria marked its 64th Independence Day on Tuesday.

“What are you saying? We are hungry,” the protesters chanted as they walked through the streets in Abuja.

Similarly, in Lagos, protesters held placards lamenting economic hardships in the country.

“Place all politicians on minimum wage,” “reverse electricity tariff,” inscriptions on their placards read.

This followed the August 1-10 nationwide protests over economic hardships under President Bola Tinubu’s government.

In his Independence Day speech, Mr Tinubu acknowledged the sufferings of Nigerians while urging them to be patient with his government.

“Once again, I plead for your patience,” Mr Tinubu said. “I understand the struggles many of you face in these challenging times. Our administration knows that many of you struggle with rising costs and the search for meaningful employment.”

He added, “I want to assure you that your voices are heard. As your president, I want to assure you that your voices are heard, and I assure you that we are committed to finding sustainable solutions to the suffering of our citizens.”