Supporters of President Bola Tinubu have clashed online with critics calling for demonstrations in Nigeria, following the recent youth-led uprising in Nepal.
The wave of protests in Nepal was driven largely by Generation Z activists who were angered by the lavish spending of politicians amid growing hardship. The unrest, which toppled the country’s prime minister, saw protesters take control of the streets of Kathmandu, defy curfews, and set fire to public buildings, including the parliament and the Supreme Court.
Inspired by the events, some Nigerians on social media suggested that citizens could stage similar actions against the political class. References were made to past movements such as #EndSARS in 2020 and #EndBadGovernance in 2024, with calls for young people to rise again.
However, supporters of the government pushed back strongly. They warned that any attempt to replicate the Nepali-style revolt could cause chaos greater than what was seen during #EndSARS. Pro-government voices urged caution, pointing out that Nepal was already dealing with widespread destruction and regret after the violence.
Civil society leaders offered mixed reactions. Enefa Georgewill of the Rivers Civil Society Organisations argued that poor governance in Nigeria continues to fuel dissatisfaction, while Debo Adeniran of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights said Nepal’s unrest was rooted in economic pressures that differ from Nigeria’s policing crisis during #EndSARS. Adeniran added that while Nigerians face hardship, ongoing government programs aimed at young people might help reduce the chance of a full-scale uprising.
Religious leaders also joined the debate. Reverend Yomi Kasali, head of the Foundation of Truth Assembly, said worsening poverty could create conditions for unrest in Nigeria if not addressed. He noted that resentment against the wealthy could easily turn violent, just as seen in Nepal.
The conversation shows that, while many Nigerians draw inspiration from global youth movements, others fear that a push for revolt could spiral into destruction and deepen the nation’s struggles.