Which Way Nigeria: Two Years After the EndSARS Protests, the Truth Remains Elusive
By Ralph Leonard
Two years have elapsed since the historic EndSARS protests significantly impacted Nigeria. The movement originated as a Twitter campaign in 2017, advocating for the disbandment of the infamous Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and an end to police brutality. The protests gained substantial traction in October 2020, culminating in a critical investigation into the fatalities of young individuals at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos.
Despite the initial momentum of the protests, the veracity of events during that critical period remains obscured. The response of the Nigerian government to the protests has been fraught with controversy, including allegations of human rights violations and extrajudicial killings.
According to Amnesty International, over 40 protesters continue to reside in detention across Nigeria, two years after the protests. This situation underscores the government’s failure to ensure the safety of its citizens and deliver justice to those who suffered police brutality.
The EndSARS movement also underscored the urgent necessity for police reform in Nigeria. The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) garnered a notorious reputation for its long-standing record of abuse toward Nigerian citizens. Nonetheless, despite the dissolution of SARS, police brutality remains a pervasive concern in Nigeria.
As the second anniversary of the EndSARS protests is observed, it is evident that considerable efforts are still required. The Nigerian government must implement concrete measures to address the systemic issues that precipitated the protests. These measures should include delivering justice for victims of police brutality, reforming the police force, and safeguarding the rights of citizens.
The EndSARS movement represents a pivotal moment in Nigerian history, exemplifying the power of civic activism and the necessity for accountability and transparency within government institutions. Moving forward, it is imperative to remember the lessons learned from the EndSARS protests and to persist in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
