Sodiq Ojuroungbe Citing potential health risks, public health physicians have said that it is dangerous for Nigerians with chronic health conditions to participate in the ongoing hunger protests in the country. The advisory became necessary amid a wave of nationwide demonstrations that have seen increasing participation among the populace. PUNCH Healthwise reports that the nationwide protest has erupted across the country, as citizens express their frustration over the prevailing economic hardship.
Nigerians began the #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria protest on August 1, 2024, to draw the attention of the government to the plight being faced by the masses. Our correspondent who monitored the protest in parts of Lagos, observed that protesters defied an order obtained from a court, confining them to some areas, and took to the streets, roads, and Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, in Lagos, to express their grievances. Speaking exclusively with PUNCH Healthwise, the medical experts noted that protests, characterised by intense physical exertion and emotional stress, could severely impact individuals with cardiovascular diseases, respiratory and mental conditions, and people with Sickle Cell Disease or mobility impairment.
They urged people with pre-existing health issues to find alternative ways to support causes they care about. Dr Mojirola Fasik A Consultant Public Health Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, Dr Mojirola Fasik, cautioned about the health .