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Although announcements of SARS being disbanded came from the government on October 11, 2020, vocal protests continued as at least 100 people were killed after that date. 20th October 2020, the day of killing, has been marked as a ‘Black Tuesday’ by people around the world.
Given the rampant assault and murder of the Nigerian youth by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the police, the EndSARS protests allowed young people in Nigeria to assert their importance.
With the surge of momentum and support the Nigerian youth were garnering, the Lekki shooting struck another nail in the coffin of the security forces, who were already under harsh criticism.
Amnesty International had received reports of CCTV cameras being removed and electricity in the area being cut off in the days leading to the protest, indicating an effort to hide any evidence of violence by the security forces.
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Nigeria’s Information Minister, Lai Mohammad, has stated that another round of protests will not be permitted because rallies could take the shape of violence in the name of justice, risking lives and property.
Protests began in October 2020, and close to 60 lives have been lost since. It is ironic considering the End SARS movement has been about redressing violence and the security forces’ brutality.
Some young people who took part in End SARS believe that while protesters rallied to fight bloodshed, this may have resulted in greater loss of blood and lives.
The protests raised over $18,000 USD. Food was organised and served to the protestors, and people came forward to refurbish a man’s car. End SARS has also brought about collectivism and garnered momentum on a large scale.
After the killings, the Nigerian government promised to investigate the accused; however, it has itself been accused of promoting the terrorisation of individuals and media aiming to provide relief and information.
Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, expressed the need for greater regulation of social media. This came following expressions of art, music, poetry by people online, and interpretations of the violence faced by youth.
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ActionAid Nigeria asked the Nigerian government to define timelines and respond to the demands that protesters have made. The government must also acknowledge the use of brute force in crushing the people’s rights, it says.
The government has already been under pressure to deliver reforms, and in the midst of mass uprising and unrest, its conservative policies may face greater opposition.