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First came the novel coronavirus dubbed SARS-CoV-2, and now, his half brother EndSARS. A non-biological, arguably just as lethal strain that isn’t going anywhere. While COVID attacks the upper respiratory tract, the other is less subtle, as seen in the Lekki Massacre. Speaking of the coronavirus, reports note a 32% spike in live cases (stands at 3028) in the week just gone by, albeit with fewer tests.
We noted how the stern and tone deaf presidential response was the match that lit the ongoing demonstrations, which are anything but peaceful. But with over 59 incidents in 26 states, what’s next for the self-acclaimed giant of Africa? To say nothing of the economic implications of losses incurred by protests running up to billions in damages.
Following what we described as a ragtag game of it wasn’t me between state officials, the President’s stern icebreaker seems to have birthed another dimension to the EndSARS chants. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to call them that anymore
What started as a clamour for an end to police brutality (#EndSars) and an overhaul of the entire policing system in Nigeria has taken an additional dimension. Protesters have added to their demands, an end to bad governance (#EndBadGovernanceinNigeria). With the protests not likely to end soon, what can we glean from the youths’ commitment and government’s reactions as we forge ahead?
For many, the #EndSARS demonstrations are a chance to vent out frustrations long overdue; but a closer look reveals a solidarity reminiscent of our founding fathers. A unity beyond ethnicity, race or sect. Now whether it achieves its desired outcome or becomes yet another hashtag… most uncertain.
Trailing the #ENDSARS movement showcases a bar for spontaneity; starting out as a series of benign agitations, then turning into full scale demonstrations. It, however, has not been without its casualties, which according to findings keep escalating.
Some 24 hours have passed since Lekki Massacre, now federal authorities are engaged in a game of tag, who did it. But there’s one voice the nation awaits for clarification.
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Besides the global recognition #ENDSARS protests enjoy, government affiliates have waded in. Yet, the words of some of these officeholders still stand in stark dichotomy to some realities present.
The 200,000 strong Twitter presence for the #EndSARS movement spells success for Nigeria’s youths. Likewise, celebrity recognition proves the movement is gaining traction. The government’s varied actions, however, and climbing fatalities tell another story.
The popular consensus of police brutality in Africa’s giant is one side of the story. Challenges of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s Police Force fuel #ENDARS, #ENDSWAT, #ENDPoliceBrutality protests across the country.
Earlier, Dataphyte established the mixed reactions that trailed the Cable Network News’ investigation that indicted the Nigerian Military. Chief amongst which was the Minister of Information who noted their findings to be ‘a poor piece of journalistic work’. Today, we see that story unfold with the Lagos State Judiciary Panel summoning CNN. But, just like the American news platform rebuffed Mr Lai Mohammed’s suppositions of fake news, it declined this request, noting the Panel lacked territorial jurisdiction. The summon followed similar petitions for federal actors such as the Lagos State Governor and state hospitals.
