The #EndBadGovernance protest organizers are demanding the release of 1,150 individuals who they allege were detained by police during the first three days of the nationwide demonstrations.

President Bola Tinubu’s call for an end to the protests and his plea for dialogue, made during his Sunday morning broadcast, have received a mixed response. The groups leading the protests—Take It Back Movement, Youth Rights Campaign, and Creative Change Centre—have stated that Tinubu’s address failed to address their core demands, vowing to continue their demonstrations.

Since Thursday, protesters, primarily young people, have taken to the streets in various states, including Lagos and Abuja, calling for an end to “bad governance” and economic hardship. Security forces have used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds, leading to several arrests and reported looting in northern states like Kano and Kaduna.

In his address, Tinubu expressed a commitment to addressing the protesters’ concerns and lamented the loss of life and property due to the clashes. He urged an end to the protests and called for dialogue, emphasizing the need for unity across various divides.

Despite Tinubu’s appeal, Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, responded that the group will persist in their protest efforts and continue to demand the release of those in custody. The Civil Society Situation Room reported 1,150 arrests and 21 fatalities, though the police have reported 681 arrests and seven deaths.

Adenola pledged ongoing legal support and resources for the detained protesters, emphasizing the group’s commitment to peaceful protest despite government intimidation. He also addressed the issue of protesters seen with what appeared to be Russian flags, stating that the movement focuses on domestic issues and won’t be distracted by attempts to discredit their cause.

Michael Lenin of the Youth Rights Campaign echoed these sentiments, criticizing the government’s use of force and alleging military involvement in suppressing the protests. He also denied any foreign involvement, asserting that their opposition is directed solely at domestic oppression.

Both groups remain determined to press forward with their demands for systemic change, vowing to uphold their constitutional rights amid increasing government pressure.