Nigerians Commemorate 4th Anniversary of #EndSARS Protests Amidst Ongoing Struggle for Justice
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October 20, 2024, marked the fourth anniversary of the historic #EndSARS protests that swept Nigeria, calling for an end to police brutality and the disbandment of the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The movement has become a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression, with Nigerians continuing to demand justice and reform.
The anniversary was commemorated with protests at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos, where protesters demanded the full implementation of judicial panel reports.
However, the police fired teargas to disperse the crowd, leading to chaotic scenes. Excel, one of the protesters, recounted, “They have started firing teargas at us. I fell into the gutter; I was hit on the head.”
Benjamin Hundeyin, Lagos State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, justified the police action, stating that they had to disperse the protesters to prevent traffic disruption. “They were told to disperse, but they were adamant; we had to use minimal force.”
Twenty-two protesters were arrested during the commemoration, but were later released. Human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, confirmed the release, stating that all seized items were returned to them. Effiong shared that he had a discussion with the Commissioner of Police regarding the matter.
Despite the disbandment of SARS, many judicial panel recommendations remain unimplemented, leaving protest leaders feeling frustrated and betrayed.
The #EndSARS movement’s legacy continues to inspire calls for justice and accountability.
The protests, which began in October 2020, drew national attention and led to the disbandment of SARS.
However, the Nigerian government’s failure to fully implement the judicial panels’ recommendations has sparked renewed calls for action.
As Nigerians reflect on the progress made and the challenges ahead, the #EndSARS movement remains a powerful symbol of resistance and a beacon of hope for a better future.
The movement has galvanized a “Soro Soke” (speak up loud) generation unwilling to bow to the vices of incompetent leaders and corrupt politicians.
The #EndSARS movement is also linked to the global call for Black liberation, with movements like #BlackLivesMatter inspiring collective action and solidarity.
List of Released Protesters:
- Hassan Taiwo Soweto
- Ilesanmi kehinde
- Uadiale Kingsley
- Osopale Adeseye T.
- Olamilekan Sanusi
- Osugba Blessing
- Kayode Anaheim
- Michael Adedeji
- Jennifer Rita Obiora
- Orunsolu Oluremi (Renyte Goonz)
- Prof Seyi Akinde
- Akin Okunowon Aluta
- Ugochukwu Prince
- Aishat Omolara
- Thomas Abiodun Olamide
- Ogbu Obinna Ferdinald
- Aghedo Kehinde Stephen
- Duroorike Olawale
- Isaac Obasi
- Funmilayo Jolade Ajayi
- Gideon Adeyeni
- Afeez Suleiman
