Plateau State residents chose not to participate in the nationwide protests scheduled for the country’s 64th independence day. The protests, known as “FearlessInOctober,” had gained momentum on social media leading up to October 1, 2024. Despite concerns that the protests would mirror previous demonstrations in the state, the day passed without any visible protests in Jos. Security personnel were present at usual gathering spots, but no protesters were spotted.
The streets of Jos were notably calm with minimal traffic, and most businesses were open, including major markets like Terminus, Satellite Market, and Bukuru Market. There were no reports of protests in the state at the time of reporting.
Former Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung, who had previously led protests in Plateau, explained that the decision to alter their protest approach for October 1 was due to the current circumstances not necessitating large-scale demonstrations. While the economic challenges persist, the method of protest in Plateau State was adjusted to suit the situation. Dalung emphasized that the fight against the prevailing hardships in Nigeria continues, even though the manner of protest may differ in Plateau.