I’m Not Scared. Kerosene Is Inside My Bag, If They Shoot. I’ve Already Told My Mom Bye” – Protester

The nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria have made a significant impact on the political landscape, marking the beginning of a crucial movement for change. Amid the surge of demonstrations, one female protester made headlines with her powerful and defiant statement, reflecting the intense frustration felt by many Nigerians.

In a recent interview, the protester addressed the potential for violence from security forces, drawing a parallel to the brutal EndSARS protests that shook the nation in 2020. Her response was a testament to her unwavering resolve and desperation for change. “That they will shoot at us? Are we living a life like this? We are already dead. Are we alive? People that died at the Lekki tollgate, are we better than them? We are not better than them,” she stated, highlighting the dire conditions she and others face.

Her words were filled with both anger and resignation. She revealed that she had taken an extreme measure in preparation for potential violence. “I’m not scared. Kerosene is inside my bag; if they shoot teargas, if they shoot guns, they don’t let me escape. I’ve already told my mother where I was going, and I’ve told them bye-bye,” she said. This dramatic declaration underscores the severity of her commitment to the protest and her willingness to confront the risks head-on.

The protester’s bold statement resonates with the broader sentiment of many Nigerians who feel trapped in a cycle of poor governance and systemic failure. The fear of a repeat of the violence seen during the EndSARS protests looms large, yet this has not deterred the participants from voicing their grievances. Her readiness to face the worst reflects a profound sense of hopelessness about their current situation and a determination to fight for a better future, regardless of the personal cost.

As the protests continue, this powerful message serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved and the deep-seated frustration driving the movement. The #EndBadGovernance protests have ignited a fervent call for reform, and stories like this one underscore the lengths to which individuals are willing to go in their quest for justice and accountability.