Nigerian Protests Escalate Amid Economic Hardships

Nationwide protests in Nigeria against economic hardship and misgovernment have escalated, with President Bola Tinubu calling for an end to the demonstrations and promising dialogue. The protests, which began on August 1, have seen security forces firing tear gas and bullets at protesters and journalists, leading to multiple fatalities and arrests. Amnesty International has accused security forces of killing at least 13 protesters, while over 700 people have been detained. Activists are demanding reductions in fuel prices and electricity tariffs, among other reforms. Despite court orders restricting protests to specific areas, demonstrators have vowed to continue until their demands are met. Some activists, however, are calling for a suspension of the protests to avoid further violence and casualties.