As the nationwide protest continues into its fourth day, some organizers and supporters have launched GoFundMe pages to raise over N4 billion using the popular online crowdfunding platform.
By Saturday evening, a total of N4.1 billion had been targeted for donation through accounts created by three GoFundMe users.
Although each fundraiser on GoFundMe has its donations secured, funds have been steadily accumulating, as indicated by the green progress bars showing on the campaign targets.
One fundraiser, titled ‘Nigerians in the United States of America and Canada,’ had set a goal of N40,898,750 ($25,000) at the time our correspondent checked. According to the site, the organizer, based in Washington, USA, stated that the funds would be used to provide essential resources for protesters, including medical supplies, transportation, and other necessities.
In a call for support, the organizer wrote, “Dear friends and supporters, today’s #EndBadGovernance protest in Nigeria saw citizens courageously standing up against corruption and poor governance. As the movement progresses, dedicated individuals will continue rallying tomorrow to demand the change their country needs.
“We urgently need your support to sustain this crucial movement. Donations will help provide essential resources for the protesters, including medical supplies, transportation, and other necessities.
“Your contribution is vital in ensuring their voices are heard and that they can continue their fight for justice and good governance. We urge Nigerians across North America to show solidarity and support this cause.”
Another GoFundMe campaign, titled ‘Nigeria EO,’ has set a goal of N20,950,777.31 (£10,000). According to the organizer, “We are raising funds to provide the protesters with essential supplies and support on the ground. Your donations will help cover the costs of bottled water, snacks, and other refreshments for the protesters, first aid kits and medical supplies in case of injuries, and transportation for volunteers to help organize and support the demonstrations.”
The third GoFundMe organizer, ‘Endbad Governance,’ set a fundraising goal of N4,613,379,000 ($2,820,000).
Meanwhile, citizens have raised N1.8 million for a protester named Ogwu Chijioke, who revealed he has been struggling to support his son’s ambition to become a programmer. Chijioke, who participated in the demonstrations on August 1, shared his story with Channels Television at the Lekki Toll Gate.
During the interview, Chijioke lamented that despite his son’s talent in programming, he could not afford essential resources like data and tuition fees. The interview went viral on Saturday, garnering widespread sympathy and support on social media.
Moved by Chijioke’s story, X (formerly Twitter) influencer Morris Monye launched a crowdfunding campaign by sharing the protester’s bank account information. Within 24 hours, supporters had raised N1.8 million. Monye shared a private message from Chijioke on X on Friday, noting that the donation target had been quickly met.
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