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#EndSARS Anniversary: Reflections and Calls for Change

Protesters Commemorate the Third Anniversary of the Lekki Tollgate Incident

Three years after the #EndSARS protests that shook Nigeria, the nation remembers the events of that fateful period. The protests, which began as a call to end the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), evolved into a larger movement demanding justice, accountability, and an end to police brutality.

Prominent activist and comedian, Mr. Macaroni, alongside other concerned Nigerians, commemorated the third anniversary of the Lekki Tollgate shootings. They gathered at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos to pay their respects and to remind the nation of the importance of justice and accountability. The gathering was not just a remembrance but also a statement that the fight against injustice continues.

However, the aftermath of the protests has been a topic of concern. The Rule of Law Advocacy and Accountability Centre (RULAAC) highlighted that the #EndSARS protests in 2020 occurred due to the government’s negligence, especially the police leadership’s failure to address numerous complaints of widespread police violence. Okechukwu Nwanguma, the Executive Director of RULAAC, expressed concerns that even three years after the protests, the government and security services’ leadership have not shown a genuine commitment to addressing the root causes of the #EndSARS movement.

Furthermore, reports have emerged that at least 15 #EndSARS protesters are still detained in Lagos prisons. This revelation raises questions about the state of justice and the government’s commitment to addressing the grievances of the protesters.

In light of these events, there have been calls for a change in the way the nation operates. The youth, who constitute a significant demographic in Nigeria, are urged to increase their participation in the nation’s affairs. They are reminded of their potential to influence the country’s direction and destiny. The emphasis is on the youth’s role in insisting on participating in politics and decision-making processes to ensure that the nation works for everyone.

In addition to the local events, international organizations like Amnesty International have also kept a close watch on the developments in Nigeria post the #EndSARS protests. They have been vocal about the need for justice and the importance of upholding human rights.

As Nigeria reflects on the third anniversary of the #EndSARS protests, the call for change, justice, and accountability remains louder than ever. The nation is reminded of the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring that such incidents do not repeat in the future.

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