It’s been almost two weeks since Nigerians have taken to the roads, demanding #EndSARS [an end to the dastardly activities of Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) – a department of the Nigeria Police Force].
It is pertinent to note that the protesters have been carrying out their civil rights in a peaceful manner, even without a visible leader.
This protest is organic and is a collective demand against police brutality. The whole idea is explicit enough for the leaders in government to understand.
However, some sponsored thugs have infiltrated the activities of these protesters. The aim is to coerce one or two persons to influence the crowd into backing down on the protests.
Organic, organized, and purpose driven
At the start of the protests, many did not envisage that it will go this far. It has transcended Lagos State into other geo political zones in the country – East, West, North and South are not left out.
On October 16, 2020, the protesters observed a candle light service to honour fallen heroes killed by SARS operatives. It was a sad moment for the families of the victims as they remembered their loved ones.
However it was an assurance that they were not forgotten and a reminder that efforts are being made to ensure hat that justice is served.
The protests have been very well organized so far and the coordination efforts cannot be faulted. Moreover, accountability has been the watchword. And the #EndSARS protesters are not backing down until their demands are met.
For the resilient souls who defy all odds – rain, sunshine, police harassment, infiltration by thugs, government restraints – the protests will continue indefinitely.
Read Also: The unending affliction of SARS and its effects
Popular Nigerian musician, actor, comedian, and lawyer, Folarin Falana (popularly known as Falz) is one of the most vocal celebrities of the #EndSARS protests.
He has encouraged Nigerians to continue to hit the roads with their demands until the government meets them all.
The five demands of the protesters are as follows:
Knowledge is power. It’s time to challenge! It’s time to hold public servants accountable. They are in office to serve the people and not the other way round.
#EndSARS protests propel an end to oppression
There is a saying that when men of courage arise, hope brightens. Even after 60 years of independence, Nigeria remains one of the poorest nations of the world. It is quite disheartening to say the least. A land blessed with immense wealth; yet so poor in infrastructure.
The #EndSARS protesters have not yet asked for an end to the epileptic power supply; they have not opened the chapter on low quality education; they are still warming up to attack the outrageous amounts Nigerian politicians take home as salaries.
All they seek presently is that the government allows them live peacefully in their nation.
Nigerians are tired of being killed for no reason; frustrated with the constant tales of police brutality.
They anticipate the day that they would no longer hear a SARS officer tell a father to look for his son among the people he has killed and dumped.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has apologized to Nigerians for their plight. He assured the people that the government is working towards meeting their demands.
Regardless, the people want action. For the average Nigerian, they have only just gained their independence. 1st October 1960 was only for show.
As Nigerians hit the streets daily to protest against injustice and police brutality, the people believe it is a first step to seek an end to bad leadership.
‘’I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.’’ Nelson Mandela
Enough is enough!
#SARSmustEnd #ReformTheNigeriaPolice
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