Fuelling Change or Chaos? Islamic Perspectives on Nigeria’s Protests

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In recent years, Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy, has been the epicentre of significant social unrest. Protests such as the End SARS movement and, more recently, the End Bad Governance demonstrations of August 2024 have not only influenced Nigeria’s political landscape but have also left a profound and lasting impact on its economy. These protests were motivated by escalating hardships, including inflation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and general dissatisfaction with governance. Although driven by legitimate concerns, they highlight the delicate balance between the right to protest and the broader economic consequences.

In exploring this topic, it is essential to frame these events through the lens of Islamic teachings. Islam places significant emphasis on justice, equity, and peaceful conflict resolution. The Holy Qur’an states:

“O ye who believe! be strict in observing justice, and be witnesses for Allah, even though it be against yourselves or against parents and kindred.” (Al-Nisa, 4:136).

However, alongside this principle lies the equally important consideration of how actions—while aimed at positive change—can have unintended consequences, especially for the broader community and economy.

In Nigeria, the economic consequences of such protests have been severe. The End Bad Governance protests were triggered by some of the nation’s deepest economic challenges in recent memory, including the surge in fuel prices following subsidy removal and the resulting inflation, which drove many Nigerians deeper into poverty. Inflation hit 34.19% in June 2024 [1], with food inflation climbing even higher, making essential commodities unaffordable for many citizens. While the removal of subsidies was seen by the government as necessary economic reform, it worsened the hardships of ordinary Nigerians, fuelling the protests further.

As protests escalated, so too did their economic costs. The August 2024 demonstrations paralyzed cities like Abuja, Kano, and Borno, causing businesses to shut down, markets to halt, and infrastructure to suffer damage due to looting and vandalism. These disruptions severely impacted Nigeria’s already fragile economy. The nation, already grappling with inflation, saw further damage as protests halted trade and public services, leading to over ₦500 billion loss in just one day [2]. Similarly, “the 2020 EndSARS protests, for instance, resulted in an estimated economic loss of over N700 billion, according to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). This figure represents a substantial setback for the Nigerian economy and highlights the devastating impact of violent protests on businesses and livelihoods.” [3]

Islamic teachings offer profound guidance on how to approach such societal challenges. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (sa) emphasized acting in ways that benefit society as a whole. He said, “The best of people are those who bring the most benefit to mankind” [4], urging individuals to prioritize the welfare of the community. At the same time, the Prophet (sa) advised against disruptive actions unless all peaceful methods had been exhausted. His teaching, “Whoever sees an evil, let him change it with his hand; if not, then with his tongue; and if not, then with his heart” [5], reflects a graded approach to addressing societal ills.

In Nigeria, as elsewhere, the challenge lies in balancing the advocacy for change with ensuring that the means of advocacy do not cause more harm than good. From an Islamic perspective, this balance is encapsulated in the principle of moderation. The Holy Qur’an reinforces this by describing the Muslim community as one of balance:

“And thus have We made you an exalted nation, that you may be guardians over men, and the Messenger of God may be a guardian over you.” (Al-Baqarah, 2:144).

In the context of protests, this principle calls for thoughtful reflection on how actions affect not just the protesters, but society as a whole, particularly with regard to economic stability.

As Nigeria grapples with its challenges, the guidance of His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba), the Caliph of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, becomes particularly relevant. In an address he delivered in Germany, His Holiness discusses the global trend of public protests and strikes, particularly in countries facing economic and political instability. He highlights the significant societal impact of such activities, emphasising the damage they inflict on the economy. His Holiness states:

“…even peaceful protests often result in a loss of millions to the economy of the nation. Under no circumstances can such behaviour be considered to be an example of loyalty to the nation.” [6]

His Holiness (May Allah be His Helper) advocates that loyalty to one’s nation must manifest through actions that contribute to its stability and economic well-being. While acknowledging that protests may be permitted within legal frameworks, he emphasizes that they should be conducted with restraint, ensuring they do not harm the nation or economy. His perspective is rooted in the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, which advises:

“O ye who believe! obey Allah, and obey His Messenger and those who are in authority among you.” (Al-Nisa, 4:60).

Building on this, His Holiness (aba) advises that in situations of societal grievances, citizens should prioritize dialogue and peaceful engagement over violent or disruptive protests. He advocates for constructive channels such as legal frameworks, debates, and consultations as effective means to resolve conflicts. His teachings draw on Quranic guidance that encourages mutual consultation in addressing community issues:

“And those who hearken to their Lord, and observe Prayer, and whose affairs are decided by mutual consultation,” (Al-Shura, 42:39).

This comprehensive approach offers a way to navigate social and political crises while safeguarding economic stability. By promoting transparency in governance and fostering open dialogue, Nigeria can work towards resolving its economic issues while maintaining peace. 

About the Author: Zafrullah Lamina is a researcher and writer with a diverse background in robotics process automation, financial engineering, leadership, and innovation. He is a volunteer of The Review of Religions, Nigeria. His academic background includes an MSc in Financial Engineering from WorldQuant University.

[1] Punch, UPDATED: Nigeria’s headline inflation rose to 34.19% in June – NBS

[2] Businessday NG. Nigeria counts the cost of #EndBadGovernance protests.

[3] TheCable. The perilous path between protest and riot: A Nigerian dilemma.

[4] Musnad Ash-Shihaab, Hadith no. 1234, published by Maktaba Islamia, pg. 713-714

[5] Hadith 34, 40 Hadith an-Nawawi

[6] True Loyalty to One’s Nation