For far too long the Nigerian nation has been taken for granted but now, she has realised her power!
It’s been a deeply refreshingly empowering reawakening of the Nigerian nation as the past couple of days has seen youths and the aged join forces to pull down the menace of police brutality which has gone on and on for decades, sadly leading to loss of lives.
Applaudably, the outcry against illegal activities of Nigeria’s Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) – a unit of the police force have sparked global outrage as the frustrated citizens called for the outright banning of the unit. The presidency unlike other times following the backlash had no choice to address the issue.
Worthy of note the #EndSARS hashtag gained traction on social media, getting the attention of well known celebrities including Chance the Rapper, Viola Davis, Estelle, Drake, Trey Songz, Nasty C, Rapsody, Big Sean, Lil Baby… including Nigerian celebrities: Davido Genevieve Nnaji, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Toyin Abraham, #BBNaija’s Tacha, Mercy, Mike Edwards, Falz, Tiwa Savage, Runtown, Khafi etc. Joining in the movement and calling for a change.
Davido #EndSARS Protest
Runtown #EndSARS Protest
Wizkid #EndSARS Protest
Following the global outcry the Nigerian government issued an order to disband and redeploy all SARS officers to other factions but Nigerians are not having it and find that solution problematic: citizens have promised to keep up their campaign seeking justice for victims of police brutality until an executive order for the complete overhaul and reformation of the security apparatus is actualised.
The outrage was ignited by the alleged killing of an unarmed man by an officer in southern Nigeria.
More recently, yesterday October 11, Protesters took to Lekki Toll gate to air their grievance and make their voice heard.
#EndSARS Protesters block Lekki Toll Gate
#EndSARS Protesters block Lekki Toll Gate
Beyond calling for police reforms, this marks a significant moment in the country as they realise the power of unity. Nigerian youths has been blasted by fellow citizens in the past as they called on todays youths to lend their lens on matters of importance rather than the much watched highly televised #BBNaija reality series.
