Lawmakers Rush Back to Work Amid Nationwide Protest Threat

Lawmakers summoned back over looming protests...

Nigeria faces fuel shortages, economic hardship, and looming nationwide protests, prompting the Speaker of the House of Representatives to recall lawmakers from recess for an emergency session, amid growing public discontent and international concern.

In response to mounting public discontent and planned protests over economic hardship and government policies, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has summoned lawmakers back from recess for an emergency session on Wednesday, July 31.

The House of Representatives, which began its break on July 23, 2024, has been recalled due to escalating pressure from citizens struggling with economic difficulties, prompting an early return to address the pressing issues.

According to a statement from the House, the upcoming session will prioritize urgent matters requiring immediate attention, indicating a focus on finding solutions to the economic challenges facing the nation.

The upcoming emergency session on July 31 will concentrate on addressing pressing issues that demand immediate attention, according to a statement from the House of Representatives.

On the same day, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen will also host a town hall meeting with young Nigerians, in partnership with YIAGA Africa and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS). This event will provide a unique opportunity for youth leaders, students, professionals, and representatives from various youth organizations to engage in direct dialogue with legislative leaders.

“Honourable Members have been duly summoned from their respective constituencies to attend this crucial session. This directive was communicated through an internal memorandum issued by the Clerk of the House, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, Esq., on Sunday,” said the House spokesman, Akin Rotimi Jr.

“The forthcoming session will focus on critical matters requiring immediate legislative attention. Honourable Members are expected to make the necessary arrangements to ensure their presence.

“Additionally, the reconvening will facilitate a significant engagement with young Nigerians through a town hall meeting hosted by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.”

Rotimi added, “This town hall is a key component of the Legislative Agenda of the 10th House, which emphasizes sustained youth engagement and the promotion of youth political participation. It is designed to provide a platform for young Nigerians to voice their concerns, share their ideas, and engage directly with legislative leaders on issues impacting their lives and futures.

“This initiative aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and the younger generation, ensuring that policies and laws are inclusive and address the specific needs of the youth. The 10th House of Representatives remains steadfast in its commitment to representing the interests of the Nigerian people and advancing the nation's development.”

Demonstrators are urging action to address hunger and hardship, with some advocating for legislative reforms, including the abolition of the Senate and the conversion of the House of Representatives into a part-time body.

The planned protests have garnered international attention, prompting the US, UK, and Canada to issue security advisories to their citizens in Nigeria, cautioning them about potential violence and advising them to steer clear of areas where clashes between security forces and protesters may erupt.

Undeterred by government attempts to dissuade them, the protest organizers remain resolute in their determination to proceed with the demonstrations.

Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, stated on Sunday, July 28, saying: “Young people are tired and need to express their displeasure against government's malfeasance.”

Protesters brandished placards bearing messages such as “Enough is Enough,” “Stop Anti-Masses Policies,” “We Are Not Slaves In Our Country,” and “Hardship Is Unbearable,” among others, as they marched through the streets.

The demonstrators chanted anti-government slogans, demanding change and expressing their discontent with the current state of affairs, with some specifically calling for the reinstatement of fuel subsidies.