Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Widespread Protests Across Nigeria over Fuel Subsidy Removal


*Policemen join in street march in solidarity with the people

Widespread street protest today greeted the fuel subsidy removal as thousands marched through the streets in several states chanting anti government slogans.
In Lagos, men of the Nigerian Police numbering over 400  joined the protest along with members of the public and the civil societies.
The  policemen were seen in their uniform marching along Oregun road and heading towards Alausa, the seat of government in Lagos. The policemen were chanting anti-government slogans.
Pockets of protesters have  successfully staged protests in various parts of Lagos State. Angry protesters took over major roads like Ikorodu Road, various roads around Ojuelegba in Sululere, Mushin and Idioro amongst others.
Following the removal of oil subsidy by the President Goodluck Jonathan on the new year day, a liter now sell for between N138 and N200  depending on your location.While in parts of Lagos it si being sold at N140-N150, in Igbogila area of Ogun State it is N160 and in Sango-Ota axis of the State, it goes for N145 per litre resulting in the increase of transport fare by over 120 per cent with a journey that used to cost N40 is now N150.
Reports also indicated that protesters blocked the Abuja-Lokoja road in Kogi and Niger States for several hours today disallowing vehicular movements while from the Federal Capital, Abuja, protesters led by the former member of House of Representatives, Dipo Melaye who were earlier arrested along with six others have been released. Tear gas cannisterns were shot at the Abuja protesters by the police
Speaking shortly after his release, Melayo said no amount of intimidation would stop him from mobilizing more people to fight against government’s removal of subsidy which has compounded the suffering of the people.
Reports also noted that there are also protests in Kano State,Kwara State, Ilorin and Zamfara State.

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