Protesters have blocked the Eleme-Onne section of the East-West Road in Rivers State, demanding action from the government on issues of poor economic reforms, poverty, and hunger. This Monday protest is part of the larger #EndBadGovernance nationwide movement, which started on August 1.
The large crowd of protesters took over the Akpajo axis of the East-West Road, expressing their disappointment over economic conditions. This road, which connects Port Harcourt to crucial business hubs like Onne Seaport, Port Harcourt refineries, and Indorama Petrochemicals, saw placards displaying dissatisfaction with the federal government’s handling of the economy.
Walson Idah, one of the protesters, told the reporters on ground:
“We need the government to revive the refineries, which have many employment and empowerment opportunities for us.
“In spite of the huge economic potential in the business area, we are unemployed, hungry and poor. We are not taking any palliatives from politicians. We need jobs, good roads, affordable electricity, and basic infrastructure,” he added.
Rejecting the federal government’s Sunday directive to call off the demonstration, the protesters insisted that urgent action is needed to address the high cost of food and other economic hardships. They also called on the government to hold state governors accountable for not effectively utilising fuel subsidy intervention funds.
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