A dramatic moment of civic turmoil was recorded in a photograph twenty-two years ago. On January 11, 2002, irate demonstrators carried posters blaming former military president Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida for the murders of Chief Moshood Abiola, Attorney General Bola Ige, and Minister of Justice.
At the main bowl of Liberty Stadium in Ibadan, during Bola Ige’s burial ceremonies, this stirring picture was captured. On December 23, 2001, hired assassins brutally killed Bola Ige, a well-known political figure and justice champion, in his house. There was a noticeable public outcry and sadness as people demanded explanations and responsibility.
This period in Nigeria’s protest history is still noteworthy because it brought to light the long-standing resentment and demands for justice that have influenced the political climate of the country.
