Commercial activities were disrupted across parts of Benin City on Thursday as hundreds of youths staged protests over worsening economic conditions, blocking key roads and bringing traffic to a standstill.
The demonstrators occupied major routes including the Benin-Lagos Expressway and the Ugbowo axis near University of Benin, creating gridlock that left commuters stranded for hours. Many travellers were forced to abandon their vehicles, while some transport operators reportedly joined the protest, citing rising fuel and maintenance costs.
The protest comes amid growing frustration over the high cost of living, with residents pointing to soaring food prices and increased fuel costs across the country. Some protesters carried placards demanding urgent government action, while others expressed broader concerns about unemployment and poor infrastructure.
Several participants also criticised government relief measures, arguing that short-term interventions have not addressed underlying economic challenges.
Security operatives, including personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were deployed to monitor the situation and maintain order. Authorities were seen engaging with protest leaders in an effort to ease traffic disruption.
Despite the tension, the demonstration remained largely peaceful as of the time of filing this report.
The Edo State Government had not issued an official statement on the protest at the time of reporting. Governor Monday Okpebholo has previously expressed support for federal economic policies, even as public dissatisfaction appears to be growing at the grassroots level.
Observers say the protest reflects increasing pressure on households and businesses, with economic concerns emerging as a central issue in public discourse. Analysts note that such demonstrations could intensify if conditions do not improve, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum.