When I left my home this morning to come to the office, I was not prepared to join the street protest. I thought I would pop in; see some colleagues, exchange pleasantries and go back home. But that was not to be. I was encouraged to move to Berger roundabout (the take-off point) where other protesters were gathering.
I was overwhelmed to say the least. University dons, federal civil servants, civil society members were all out on the street. One thought came to me – this protest is not just about fuel subsidy removal; it is about the injustices in governance we have endured for so long.When the route we would be taking was announced to us, I said to myself “I hope I can make it”. But when we started, I barely felt it. And it was really instructive walking with others in protest. People have had enough. The fuel subsidy removal was seemingly the last straw that broke the camel’s back.The anger in the air is so palpable, you could literally feel it. And with the way things are going, the government will not get their wish – that protesters will get tired after a number of days and leave the streets.
The slogan on the street today was “NO RETREAT, NO SURRENDER”. In other words, government has a long wait ahead of them. The people’s resolve is strong and their will unyielding.This is a struggle for all. Our voices must be heard.
Curiously, after today’s march, I have a sense of fulfilment. If I’m asked by posterity what I did to ensure that justice is done, I can say I joined my voice to thousands of others to demand a change.
Keep safe wherever you find yourself and remember we must remain resolute in this struggle.
