A group of victims from the recent #EndBadGovernance protest has cautioned against the planned October 1 protest, citing the dire consequences of the previous demonstration.

The Victims of #EndBadGovernance Protest (VEGP) claimed that innocent protesters were killed and many Nigerians, especially in the north, suffered wounds, scars, and financial losses during the ten-day nationwide protest.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, leader Ibrahim Musa Kauru warned that another round of protests without a clear agenda would further endanger and impoverish citizens. He alleged that the main sponsors of the protest instigated the demonstrations from abroad while innocent citizens bore the brunt.

Kauru emphasized that the previous protest achieved no fruitful results and that victims were not supported or compensated. He cited reports from the United Action Front of Civil Society, stating that 21 protesters were killed and over 1,100 arrested on the first day of the protest.

Victims shared their personal stories, including Amina Abubakar, a student who was mobilized to join the protest, and Malam Garba Ibn Mohammed, who lost his 22-year-old son. Emmanuel Okonkwo, an Igbo trader, also spoke about his shop being looted during the protest and warned against further demonstrations, citing the risk of hoodlums hijacking the protests.

The victims urged Nigerians, especially youths, to be cautious and avoid being used for ulterior political motives. They called on the government and security agencies to prevent any form of protest, fearing it would lead to further destruction and loss of life.