Economic activities in Lagos State have been significantly impacted by the nationwide protest addressing various socio-economic grievances.
Traders in the state conducted their weekly sanitation exercise, a customary practice every Thursday ending by 10 am.
Concurrently with the protest commencement, markets in Ikotun, Egbeda, Iyana Ipaja, Dopemu, Akowonjo, and Ayobo were all closed, disrupting the usual hustle and bustle.
A similar scenario unfolded in Ikeja, Agege, and Ojota, where markets remained shut, with only a few traders milling around, awaiting further developments.
One trader, referred to as Emmanuel, mentioned that market closure was in response to the ongoing protest, indicating a cautious approach before resuming normal operations.
Another trader, preferring anonymity, expressed concerns about market safety, emphasizing the primary focus of market vendors amidst the protest.
Banks and filling stations in these areas were also closed, adding to the disruption noticed by observers.
Residents gathered in communities to discuss the unfolding events, while heavy security presence was evident, especially in strategic locations.
The protest, known as “Days of Rage,” is scheduled nationwide from August 1 to 10, but various government officials, organizations, and religious bodies, including the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Muslim Student Society of Nigeria (Lagos chapter), and the Muslim Rights Concern, have urged for the protest’s suspension due to concerns of potential infiltration by malicious elements.