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The Hidden Costs of Violent Protests: The Long-Term Repercussions and Who takes responsibility? David Offor

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2 years ago

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The Hidden Costs of Violent Protests: The Long-Term Repercussions and Who takes responsibility?
David Offor

 

Violent protests have become a powerful form of political expression in recent years, but their long-term social and economic impacts are often overlooked. The recent tax protests in Kenya are a striking example of how public dissent can escalate into widespread chaos, leaving lasting wounds on society and the economy.

 

 

The Kenyan Tax Protests: From Protest to Carnage

The recently proposed tax hike in Kenya has sparked widespread protests that quickly turned violent. What started as peaceful demonstrations and a call to recall the parliamentary bill resulted in widespread chaos, including looting, damage to infrastructure, and loss of life. The economic impact was immediate and significant, with Nairobi’s Central Business District becoming deserted as businesses closed and were looted and destroyed in response to the violence. The destruction of property caused substantial financial losses, compounding the challenges faced by an already fragile economy. Moreover, the disruption led to a decline in investor confidence and a downturn in the vital tourism sector. The long-term effects remain unclear, but the immediate aftermath highlights the stark consequences of violent protests on Kenya’s economy.

 

 

Parallels in Another country,

NIGERIA: The End SARS Protests
Nigeria’s End SARS protests in 2020 echo the events in Kenya, highlighting similar socio-economic consequences. Initially a movement against police brutality which denied other non-protesting citizens the use of social and transport infrastructure, the protests later escalated into violent clashes with security forces, resulting in widespread destruction. Government buildings, private businesses, and public infrastructure were not spared. For instance, public transportation infrastructure and buses were burnt leading to a transportation crisis in Nigeria’s commercial capital, Lagos, when Nigeria finally removed expensive fuel subsidies four years later.
The negative economic impact was substantial. According to estimates, the Nigerian economy lost about $1.5 billion in the first two weeks of the protests alone. The destruction of property led to job losses, further compounding the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians and worsening whatever social situations existed before the protests. Moreover, the violence and instability deterred foreign investment for years, with businesses reconsidering their plans in a country perceived as unstable.

 

 

 

 

The Western Experience: Ruin in USA, France, Canada and Spain… Lives lost; Billions of Dollars in destruction
Advanced democracies and Western countries are not immune, either, to the socio-economic fallout of when protests turn violent. The United States, for example, experienced significant unrest following the death of George Floyd in 2020. Protests across major cities often turned violent, resulting in extensive property damage and, tragically, loss of life. Multiple deaths were recorded, both among protesters and law enforcement officers, underscoring the deadly potential of such unrest. The costs of rebuilding were immense, with insurance claims exceeding $2 billion, making it the most expensive civil unrest in U.S. history.
Similarly, protests in France, notably the Yellow Vest movement, led to widespread damage to public and private property. The economic disruption was felt across various sectors, from retail to tourism, with the government facing billions in reconstruction costs. The protests also resulted in several deaths, highlighting the severe human cost of violent dissent. In Spain, the 2017 Catalonia independence referendum sparked widespread protests that often turned violent. The clashes between protesters and police not only resulted in physical injuries and damage to property but also caused significant economic disruptions. The uncertainty surrounding the region’s political future led to a flight of businesses, with many companies relocating their headquarters out of Catalonia to avoid instability.
The tourism sector, a major contributor to Catalonia’s economy is still suffering. The images of violent confrontations broadcast worldwide led to a decline in tourist arrivals, affecting hotels, restaurants, and other businesses reliant on tourism. The broader Spanish economy felt the ripple effects, highlighting how regional unrest can have national implications.
In early 2022, Canada’s “Freedom Convoy” protests against COVID-19 vaccine mandates culminated in a blockade of critical border crossings, including the Ambassador Bridge, a vital trade artery between the U.S. and Canada. The blockade caused significant economic disruption, halting the flow of goods and costing millions of dollars in trade losses each day.

 

 

 

Manufacturing industries on both sides of the border suffered, with auto plants forced to shut down due to parts shortages. The economic impact was swift and severe, highlighting the vulnerability of supply chains to such disruptions. The blockade underscored the broader risks to economic stability when protests target critical infrastructure and the government had to employ the use of force to quell the protests leading to several arrests, and blocking of accounts of many who took part in, or funded – actively and passively, the protests even months after. Fortunately, no deaths were recorded during the Canadian protests, but the economic and social strain was considerable.

 

 

 

The Hong Kong Protests: A City in Turmoil and loss of regional economic status
Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protests in 2019-2020 present another vivid example. Initially sparked by an extradition bill, the protests escalated into a broader movement against perceived erosion of freedoms. The protests frequently turned violent, with clashes between protesters and police causing widespread disruption.
Hong Kong’s economy, already under pressure from global trade tensions, took a significant hit. Retail sales plummeted, with major shopping districts seeing sharp declines in foot traffic. The tourism sector, a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s economy, faced a steep drop in visitors. Airlines reported reduced flight bookings, and hotels saw occupancy rates fall dramatically.
The long-term damage to Hong Kong’s reputation as a stable financial hub cannot be overstated. Businesses and investors grew wary of the continued unrest, leading to capital flight and a reconsideration of Hong Kong as a base for regional operations.

The Trump Coup Attempt: Democracy Under Siege reminiscent of similar protests
The January 6th, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump marked a dark day for American democracy. No one believes such could happen in theUnited States of America of all places. The violent attempt to overturn the results of a democratic election not only led to loss of life and extensive property damage but also struck at the very heart of democratic principles. Five deaths were directly linked to the events of that day, including both protesters and law enforcement personnel. The economic impact, though secondary to the political crisis, included millions in damages and heightened security costs – all still borne by the American people.
This incident highlights the dangers of using protests to attempt a change in government through unconstitutional means. The attempt to force a change in a democratically elected government undermines the rule of law and the tenets of democracy, setting a dangerous precedent for future unrest.

Protests gone Wrong: The Hidden Costs
The economic damage and loss of lives from violent protests is just the tip of the iceberg. The deeper, more insidious costs lie in the erosion of social cohesion and trust. In Kenya, Nigeria, and other affected countries, the aftermath of such protests has left communities divided, with deep-seated grievances often leading to further instability.

Moreover, the focus on rebuilding physical infrastructure after the protests often overshadows the need to address the underlying issues that led to the protests. Governments end up having to divert funds from critical social programs to repair damaged property and infrastructure, putting further stress on the people and exacerbating socio-economic inequalities and perpetuating a cycle of unrest.

The Need for Government Intervention
While the right to protest is a fundamental democratic principle, the manner in which dissent is expressed can have profound implications. In cases where protests devolve into violence, it becomes necessary for governments to step in with force to restore order. The use of force, though often controversial, is sometimes crucial to prevent further destruction and to protect lives and property.
No responsible government can stand by while nefarious elements exploit legitimate protests to destabilise a country. Such elements often aim to force a change in government through unconstitutional means, undermining the very fabric of democracy. Governments must act decisively to ensure that the rule of law is upheld, and that the democratic process is protected. Allowing violent protests to go unchecked risks setting a dangerous precedent where force becomes a means to achieve political ends.

What is the way forward?
While the right to protest is essential, citizens must also bear the responsibility of ensuring that their actions do not lead to violence and destruction. Protests that are increasingly more often hijacked by nefarious elements seeking to destabilise governments through unconstitutional means only serve to undermine the legitimate grievances of the populace.
On the other hand, constructive dialogue between governments and citizens remains crucial. Addressing the root causes of discontent through reform and engagement can prevent the escalation of tensions but citizens must also know when to rein in their protests. A government elected by the entire population should not be removed through the back door by elements who choose not to use the polls to exercise their rights. Governments must however be proactive in responding to the needs of their people, and citizens must engage in peaceful and responsible advocacy.
As we reflect on the lessons from recent history, it is clear that the true cost of violent protests extends far beyond the immediate scenes of destruction. It is a cost borne by society as a whole, with repercussions that can last for generations – a one step forward, many steps backwards scenario. Through responsible protest and effective governance, the socio-economic fabric of society can be preserved and strengthened, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for all.

David Offor is a student of Political science and public policy with a key interest in citizen rights, public affairs and global diplomacy

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Makinde, Ajadi, Others Converge in Ibadan for Historic Opposition Summit Ahead of 2027

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4 hours ago

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April 25, 2026

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Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, Makinde, Ajadi, Others Converge in Ibadan for Historic Opposition Summit Ahead of 2027

 

 

In a significant political convergence that could reshape Nigeria’s democratic landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, prominent opposition leaders, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, gathered in Ibadan on Saturday for the National Summit of Opposition Political Parties Leaders.

 

The high-level summit, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House Ibadan, also drew the participation of leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, alongside several political heavyweights and stakeholders across party lines.

 

Convened under the theme, “That We May Work Together for a United Opposition to Sustain Our Democracy,” the summit brought together representatives from major opposition platforms including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP).

 

Other notable figures at the summit included former Senate President David Mark, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal.

 

Also in attendance were elder statesman Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, political economist Pat Utomi, social activist Aisha Yesufu, and former APC National Secretary John Akpanudoedehe, among others.

 

Speakers and stakeholders at the summit examined critical national issues, including electoral reforms, national security, economic recovery, and the need for stronger democratic institutions, as part of efforts to forge a united opposition front ahead of 2027.

 

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, who actively participated in the summit, spoke with journalists shortly after stepping out of the Banquet Hall. Addressing newsmen, Ajadi described the gathering as a turning point for opposition politics in Nigeria.

 

“This summit represents a new beginning for the opposition in Nigeria. What we are seeing is a deliberate effort to put aside differences and work towards a common goal,” Ajadi said.

 

He noted that the collaboration among diverse political actors signals a renewed commitment to national development and democratic consolidation.

 

Nigerians are looking for direction and credible leadership. The responsibility is on us as opposition leaders to provide that alternative and restore confidence in governance,” he added.

 

Analysts say the Ibadan summit marks one of the most coordinated efforts by opposition forces in recent years, signaling early realignments and possible coalition-building ahead of the next general elections.

 

As deliberations continue, political observers believe the outcomes of the summit could significantly influence Nigeria’s political direction, particularly if the unity advocated by participants translates into concrete alliances.

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Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026: Abuja and Lagos Set the Stage for a New Era of Local Innovation and Enterprise

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12 hours ago

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April 25, 2026

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Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026: Abuja and Lagos Set the Stage for a New Era of Local Innovation and Enterprise

 

 

Abuja and Lagos are poised to surge with energy, enterprise, and cultural expression as the Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026 takes centre stage—an event designed not merely to display products, but to redefine perception.

 

More than a conventional exhibition, this gathering signals a confident assertion of Nigeria’s productive strength. Entrepreneurs, manufacturers, creatives, and industry leaders from across the nation will assemble to present a compelling spectrum of locally made goods. From premium leather craftsmanship and cutting-edge fashion to beauty innovations, agro-based solutions, and artisanal creations, each showcase reflects ingenuity shaped by resilience and ambition.

 

 

At the heart of the exhibition lies a deliberate push to elevate emerging brands. Many small businesses operate with limited visibility, often constrained by access and exposure. This platform disrupts that pattern. By offering opportunities such as complimentary booth spaces for selected participants, it opens the door for underrepresented talents to step into the spotlight—not just to sell, but to be seen, evaluated, and remembered.

 

According to Bola Awosika, the driving force behind the initiative, “This exhibition is about shifting mindsets. Nigerian products are not just alternatives—they are competitive, innovative, and globally relevant. We are creating a space where local brands can be experienced, trusted, and elevated.”

The exhibition will hold biannually in both Abuja and Lagos:

 

Abuja Edition

• First Edition: 27th–28th June 2026

• Second Edition: 12th–13th December 2026

Lagos Edition

• First Edition: 25th–26th July 2026

• Second Edition: 19th–20th December 2026

 

Each edition will draw a dynamic mix of participants—buyers scouting quality, investors searching for scalable ideas, media documenting emerging trends, and everyday Nigerians engaging with products that reflect their identity. Conversations sparked within the exhibition halls are expected to extend beyond introductions, evolving into partnerships and long-term collaborations.

The experience itself goes beyond static displays.

 

Attendees will encounter live demonstrations, immersive product storytelling, interactive sessions, and curated networking opportunities. It becomes less about walking through aisles and more about engaging directly with the pulse of Nigerian creativity and enterprise.

 

Yet, the exhibition carries a broader economic and cultural message. It challenges consumer habits, urging Nigerians to support domestic production while reinforcing confidence in local capabilities. Every transaction becomes a statement—one that contributes to national growth and industrial sustainability.

 

For many participants, this platform could mark a pivotal shift. A relatively unknown brand may secure national recognition. A hidden talent could attract strategic investment. An early-stage idea might evolve into a scalable enterprise. The ripple effects are designed to outlast the exhibition itself.

 

 

As the momentum builds business owners have started making enquiries and booking stands for each edition, what remains is not just a successful event, but a strengthened narrative—one that positions Nigerian products as credible, competitive, and ready for global markets.

 

 

Call to Participate: Affordable Access, Strategic Opportunity

 

As preparations intensify, the Convener, Bola Awosika, has extended a direct invitation to entrepreneurs, brands, and industry players to seize the opportunity presented by the exhibition.

 

“We have deliberately structured this exhibition to be inclusive and accessible. With pocket-friendly stand rates, we are removing the usual barriers that prevent many businesses from participating. Vendors can secure their booths at ₦150,000 and ₦200,000 respectively. This is not just a cost—it is an investment in visibility, credibility, and growth. We encourage businesses across Nigeria to take advantage of this platform to position their brands for new markets and opportunities,” she stated.

 

Beyond vendor participation, she emphasized the importance of collaboration in delivering a world-class event.

 

“it will be an annual event. We are also calling on corporate organisations, development institutions, and forward-thinking brands to come on board as sponsors and partners. This exhibition is a national platform with significant economic impact, and there is immense value for organisations looking to align with innovation, enterprise, and local content development.”

Interested exhibitors, sponsors, and partners can access more information and secure participation via the official website: www.nigeriaexportsexhibition.com.ng

 

The exhibition is currently supported by notable institutions including Bank of Industry, Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, and Sahcol, with additional sponsors and partners expected to join as momentum builds.

 

 

Powered by Bevents Logistics Synergy, the Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026 stands not as a fleeting showcase, but as a sustained movement—one that redefines how Nigeria sees its own potential and how the world engages with it.

 

Made-in-Nigeria Exhibition 2026: Abuja and Lagos Set the Stage for a New Era of Local Innovation and Enterprise

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Rebalancing The Force: Why Police Visibility Must Reach The Ordinary Citizen

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13 hours ago

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April 25, 2026

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Rebalancing The Force: Why Police Visibility Must Reach The Ordinary Citizen

 

In every functioning society, the true test of policing is not what happens in elite corridors of influence, but what the ordinary citizen experiences on the street.

For too long, that balance has been distorted.

Recent criticism surrounding the redeployment of officers from Zone 2 Command in Lagos has been framed in sensational terms: mass transfers, alleged illegality, internal discontent. But beneath the noise lies a far more important and uncomfortable truth: Nigeria’s policing structure, particularly in high-interest zones, has been uneven, inefficient, and in urgent need of correction.

This is the context within which the actions of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, must be understood.

The ongoing exercise is not incidental. It is the direct outcome of a clearly defined restructuring objective under the leadership of the Inspector-General: one that prioritises the even and adequate distribution of personnel for effective policing across the country.

Zone 2 Command, which oversees Lagos and Ogun States, has evolved over time into something beyond its administrative mandate. Rather than functioning strictly as a supervisory and coordination hub, it has become heavily populated, far beyond operational necessity.

In practical terms, this has meant one thing: a concentration of personnel where they are least needed, and a shortage where they are most needed.

While Zone 2 swelled with officers, reportedly far exceeding standard staffing expectations, divisional police stations, community posts, and rural commands have continued to operate below capacity.

The result?

* Slower response times
* Reduced police visibility in neighborhoods
* Overworked officers in understaffed stations
* Communities left feeling exposed

No serious policing system can justify that imbalance.

Security is not theoretical. It is not a concept measured in internal postings or administrative convenience. It is measured in presence: visible, responsive, and accessible.

When citizens say they do not “feel” the police, what they are really saying is simple: the system is not reaching them.

Redistributing personnel is not punishment. It is not arbitrary. It is the essence of operational policing.

This is precisely the thinking driving the current reforms under IGP Olatunji Disu—the deliberate repositioning of the Force to ensure that policing is not concentrated in a few administrative centres, but extended meaningfully to the communities that need it most.

The Inspector-General’s position is therefore not only defensible, it is necessary:
policing must be felt everywhere.

There is also an open secret that cannot be ignored.

Assignments to certain commands, particularly those linked to high-value civil disputes such as land matters, have historically attracted disproportionate interest. The concentration of officers in such zones is not always driven by operational need, but by perceived opportunity.

This distortion has long undermined equitable deployment.

Correcting it requires more than caution; it requires leadership and resolve, both of which are reflected in the current restructuring agenda of the Inspector-General.

Under the Nigeria Police Act, the Inspector-General of Police retains administrative authority over postings and redeployments within the Force.

Transfers are not extraordinary measures. They are routine instruments of:

* Discipline
* Efficiency
* Institutional balance

To label such actions as “illegal” without reference to any breached statute is to substitute sentiment for law.

More importantly, it distracts from the real issue:
Are officers deployed where Nigerians actually need them?

Nigeria is approaching a critical period.

With elections on the horizon, the demand for:

* Crowd control
* Community intelligence
* Rapid response capability

will increase significantly.

A police force clustered in administrative zones cannot meet that demand.

Lagos needs officers.
Ogun needs officers.
Communities need presence, not paperwork.

There is also a deeper dimension often ignored in public discourse; the welfare of officers themselves.

Overconcentration in some commands and understaffing in others creates:

* Burnout in frontline stations
* Irregular shifts
* Mental fatigue
* Reduced effectiveness

A properly distributed force, one of the core objectives of the current restructuring led by IGP Olatunji Disu allows for:

* Structured shifts
* Better rest cycles
* Improved mental health
* Higher operational efficiency

This is not just about deployment. It is about sustainability.

It is worth noting that previous leaderships have attempted to decongest Zone 2. Those efforts faltered, not because they were wrong, but because they lacked the consistency and institutional backing required to see them through.

Reform, by its nature, is disruptive.

But disruption is not dysfunction.
It is often the first step toward order.

The debate, therefore, should not be:

“Why are officers being transferred?”

The real question is:

Why were so many officers concentrated in one administrative zone while communities remained under-policed?

Until that question is answered honestly, resistance to reform will continue to masquerade as concern.

At its core, policing exists for one purpose: to protect the public.

Not selectively.
Not strategically for advantage.
But universally.

If restructuring ensures that:

* more officers are on the streets,
* more communities are covered, and
* more citizens feel safe,

then it is not just justified, it is imperative.

The common man does not measure policing by internal postings.
He measures it by presence.

And under the current reform-driven leadership, that presence is being deliberately, and necessarily, restored.

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