Over N700 billion lost so far to the #EndSARS protest.

The Lagos State Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has stated that the Nigerian economy has lost over N700 billion to the #EndSARS protest over the last 12 days.

She said that the LCCI appreciates the value of citizens’ engagement and the demand for accountability which the protest  represents, but lamented the negative impact on the economy.

“These are in consonance with democratic norms.  They also form vital ingredients for good governance," president of LCCI, Mrs Toki Mabogunje stated while reviewing the economic implications of the protest.

“LCCI is however concerned about the negative impact that the protracted nature of the EndSars protests has on business activities across the country.

“Over the past twelve days, economic activities have been crippled in most parts of the country and has been particularly profound in the urban areas.

“The Nigerian economy has suffered an estimated seven hundred billion naira (N700 billion) loss in the past twelve days.”

She asserted that the protest has been impactful and profound, adding that it has achieved some significant outcomes by reawakening the need to reform the shortcomings in the nation’s political governance.

The LCCI president however said that to protect the livelihoods of Nigerians, including the business community, the protesters need to progress to the next stage of civic engagement, which is dialogue.

“This is necessary to reduce the massive disruptions, blockades and barricades around our major cities and interstate highways.  These actions have been at great cost to the economy and the welfare of Nigerian citizens. It should be noted that our economy is still reeling from the shocks of the Covid 19 Pandemic and struggling to recover from its devastating effects,” she added.