How #EndSARS Protests Affect The Economy

By John Victor

Just recently, News that Nigeria lost N700 billion in 12 days to EndSARS protests went viral.

Earlier, before the protests It was revealed that the Nation’s debt servicing could lead to a recession. Coupled with the ensuing unrest, it falls to reason that the country would go through hardship, should the government refuse to make any meaningful intervention.

The protests have also influenced people’s businesses. Those, who are relatively unconcerned by the proceedings tend to lose patronage.

Just recently, a man in a public bus retorted that #EndSARS protesters are wasting their time. He was pushed out of the bus by passengers, with the backing of driver.

Although the protests, by nature, mean well. If lingered, it could be devastating to the economy.

Last week Saturday, a woman selling in market said the protesters should find work. She ran out of business as her shop was shut down the next day.

Collectively, the protesters are being regarded with de facto prominence, as they are fighting for the rights of the common youth.

There had been widespread reports on social media of DStv and GOtv hacking by Anonymous (A hacking group). This was after after they claimed to have hacked the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) twitter account.

In addition, Airtel Nigeria had sent free airtime and data to it’s subscribers which it claimed was compensation for service disruptions on its network on Friday, October 16, 2020.

Generally, if the protests are extended, a tendency for lawlessness and disregard for order will lead to social problems, which pose a threat to the well-being of the common man.