Source : Sahel weather July & august 2024 

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The news of July and August 2024 in Nigeria is marked by attacks and demonstrations linked to galloping inflation. The latest terrorist attacks suggest that the lull was short-lived after all. First there were attacks in three regions of Borno State, which local authorities attribute to Boko Haram, leaving at least eighteen people dead and dozens injured. Although the Nigerian state claims to have arrested extremists, the group continues to launch attacks from the border regions with Cameroon, using the same modus operandi.

These borders remain porous due to disputes between the two countries, which have pledged to finalize the delimitation of these land borders by 2025, in line with UN recommendations. Despite territorial disputes over a 36km segment, Cameroon and Nigeria have agreed to collaborate on hydrocarbon exploitation along their maritime border.

On the economic front, to alleviate social pressure, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu more than doubled the minimum wage for federal employees and civil servants in response to the soaring cost of living.

Despite these efforts, demonstrations broke out in several towns to protest against poor governance and the rising cost of living. Following these demonstrations in the north of the country, acts of vandalism were also reported. The police intervened to disperse the demonstrators, but they continue to demand the cancellation of certain reforms, such as the suspension of fuel subsidies. The purchase of a new presidential aircraft in the midst of an economic crisis is not helping the social situation.

According to Amnesty International, the protests left at least 21 people dead, while the Nigerian authorities reported 13 dead. During the protests, the defense and security forces were accused of violence against protesters. Although investigations are underway, the police and military authorities deny any responsibility. However, on Tuesday, the Nigerian police announced the arrest of over 90 demonstrators in the north of the country, some of whom were waving Russian flags. This move has been criticized by the Nigerian army as Russian interference, prompting the Nigerian domestic intelligence service (DSS) to open an investigation into the origin of the flags. However, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement whatsoever in these demonstrations.

It was against this backdrop that Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Sunday August 4, 2024 called for dialogue to put an end to the demonstrations, which he described as "political". However, the demonstrators, unhappy with the lack of response to their demands, rejected this call. As Nigerians continue to denounce bad governance and the high cost of living, the police have warned that they will crack down on any further demonstrations. Despite this, the growing "End Bad Governance" movement in Nigeria continues to hold demonstrations.