End SARS

What is “End SARS”? End SARS is not a new exercise routine, nor is it an invitation to a fancy dinner party. It is, in fact, a viral campaign by young Nigerians using the hashtag #EndSARS to call for the end of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Nigeria.

What is SARS? SARS is a police unit in Nigeria that was created to combat armed robbery, but has since gained a reputation for brutality, extortion, and human rights abuses. They have been accused of stealing from citizens, harassing innocent people, and even killing them.

Why do people want to End SARS? The #EndSARS campaign began in 2017 when a video surfaced of SARS officials shooting a young man in the streets of Lagos. Since then, Nigerians have taken to social media to share their own stories of harassment and abuse by SARS officials. The movement gained even more momentum in October 2020 when a video of SARS officials killing an unarmed young man in Delta State went viral. Nigerians are fed up with the corruption and violence perpetrated by SARS officials and are demanding that the government put an end to the unit.

What has been the government’s response? At first, the Nigerian government was slow to respond to the #EndSARS campaign. However, after days of protests across the country and international pressure, the government finally disbanded SARS on October 11, 2020. But Nigerians are not satisfied with just the disbandment of SARS, they also want justice for the victims of SARS brutality and for police reform in general.

What are some of the ways Nigerians are protesting? Nigerians have taken to the streets across the country, demanding an end to police brutality and corruption. They have also created online petitions and launched a fundraising campaign to support protesters who have been injured or arrested. But one of the most creative forms of protest has been the use of humor and satire on social media. Nigerians have been sharing memes, sketches, and TikTok videos mocking SARS officials and the government’s response to the #EndSARS campaign. One of the standout examples was a video of a young man dancing to a popular Nigerian song while SARS officials harassed him. The video went viral and became a symbol of the resilience and humor of Nigerians in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, while the #EndSARS campaign may have started out as a serious demand for justice, it has also become a showcase of Nigerian wit, humor, and creativity. Hopefully, the Nigerian government will listen to the demands of its people and take real steps towards meaningful police reform. Until then, Nigerians will continue to use their voices and humor to fight for a better future.