There has been a growing number of international celebrities speaking out in support of the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in Nigeria.
US superstar, Kanye West has become the latest in a long line of celebrities worldwide to lend support. Others are former professional footballer Rio Ferdinand, singer Trey Songz and Star Wars actor John Boyega.
All have shown support to those protesting for the disbandment of the controversial police unit, popularly known as SARS.
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#EndSARS Gains Momentum
The protests across Nigeria started as a result of uproar on social media by young people. This was as a result of claims of kidnapping, harassment and extortion by the police in general, and the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) in particular.
The #EndSARS hashtag gained significant momentum on social media, with the hashtag being tweeted thousands of times.
Celebrities Lend Support to #EndSARS
John Boyega lent his voice to the ongoing protests in a series of tweets.
The Star Wars Actor is a vocal champion against racism. He has previously spoken passionately in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
John tweeted, “I have a feeling that this is more than just SARS. Nigerians want true change! They are fed up managing faith without practical action and we support you”.
Trey Songz tweeted on Saturday 10 October; “Police brutality here in America often is, an abuse of power driven by race. To be brutalized, extorted, nd murdered by your own people is unimaginable. Prayers up and I’m researching ways I can help. #EndSARS”.
American gospel singer Kirk Franklin also issued a message of support on Instagram. He stated that, “For over 20 years, Nigeria stood with me, now I stand with you. #endsarsnow.”
#EndSARS Protests Spreads Worldwide
There has been an array of protests across the world involving communities from the Nigerian diaspora. The protest has now spread to countries such as Canada, England, Germany and the United States to list a few.
Afrobeat stars Wizkid and Mr Eazi led protests in London.
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The End of SARS?
On the 11th of October, Mohammed Abubakar Adamu who is Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police announced the disbandment of SARS.
However, the protests continued in Lagos. With young Nigerians saying they would continue to take to the streets until the entire police force was reformed.
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President Buhari addressed Nigerians in a video broadcast on Monday, 12 October. He announced that the disbandment of SARS is only the first step in his government’s commitment to extensive police reform.
He also added that police officers responsible for any wrongdoing will be brought to justice. As more protests got under way the next day, . The Senate president, Ahmed Lawan called for an end to the protests.
However it appears that given the global support and outcry, protests will not be ending anytime soon.
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Ann-Marie Okeke
21/10/2020 at 1:35 pmA very well written article Vivian, regarding such a horrific and outrageous matter of concern currently causing upheaval in Nigeria. It is good to know we have the support of some famous celebrities from different parts of the world. Now this matter has been exposed to the world, we just pray that the support from other Nations will help to get Nigeria to become a civilised country ruled by people in a position of Authority who are not corrupt, wicked and greedy but are genuinely following rules and principles for the safety, protection and better of the country. We place the matter in the hands of God and we pray He will intervene and repair and restore our country. For all the innocent blood shed and lives lost unnecessarily due to greed and stupidity- may God have mercy. Thank you Vivian for writing about this issue that should be read by all as we need increasing support to fight this. Well done!
Charleen
24/10/2020 at 10:08 amA well written piece highlighting the atrocities within SARS and the determined young people who are fighting for change. Faith without works is dead. Therefore, continue to fight for righteousness and justice, Nigeria.
It’s great to see so many people supporting the cause; may many more of us stand in protest and see real change. x