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A recent Dataphyte analysis questioned the outcome and implementation of government-mandated Judicial panels of inquiry, following EndSARS demonstrations. Today, however, we observe seven states neglected to even take said first steps.
Trailing the EndSARS conversation tells a tale of neglect to Nigerians and law enforcement, with the number of petitions as an indicator of indiscretions from the latter. Yes, government mandated Judicial panels of inquiry are first steps. But implementation and duration will tell the rest.
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INFOGRAPHICS: Duration of Inquiry for Judicial Panels on Police Brutality
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INFOGRAPHICS: Judicial Panel of Inquiry into Acts of Police Brutality
Earlier this month, the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, surmised it was hoodlums dressed as soldiers, not the Army that shot EndSARS protesters at Lekki toll gate
The storied history of security in Nigeria is not for the faint of heart. But it is imperative to peep through the curtains amid recent events. And while the Attorney General is still blind about the military’s involvement in the Lekki massacre, we glance through Nigeria’s security agents “rap sheet” over the years.
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.
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.
