Protests and demonstrations are a feature of the democratic system of government. They underscore the constitutionally-protected rights of citizens to freely and publicly express their views. However, they come with economic costs, especially when they disrupt society and the economy through tactics such as highway blockades.
When protests turn violent, like the ENDSARS protest in 2020, the result is destruction and looting. This forces the government to spend scarce public funds on rebuilding, effectively passing the costs on to everyone, including those who may not agree with the protesters.
Today on Numbers to Watch, we look at the cost of the ENDSARS protest to Lagos in 2020, as debates continue about the planned ’10 days of rage’ protest nationwide.
Public property destroyed in Lagos:
– Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government secretariat
– Vehicle Inspection Office, Ojodu Berger
– Lagos State Public Works Corporation, Ojodu Berger
– Lagos City Hall
– 25 police stations burnt and several others vandalized
Private property destroyed in Lagos:
– Palace of the Oba of Lagos
– Circle Mall, Lekki
– Numerous luxury shops in Surulere
– The Nation Newspaper and TVC
– Shoprite Lekki
