Three years have passed since the #EndSARS protests brought Nigeria to a standstill, as its youth united to demand an end to police brutality and injustice. While the protests compelled the government to disband the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), an in-depth analysis reveals that the spirit of SARS still lingers in the police force.
Challenges persist, with reports of police brutality and human rights abuses continuing. Incidents of brutality, including the tragic shooting of Bolanle Raheem, a seven-month pregnant lawyer, in December 2022, reflect the need for comprehensive police reforms. The government's response to protesters' demands has been inconsistent, and many citizens feel that the promised changes remain elusive.
Despite the challenges, Nigerian youth are once again preparing for remembrance protests. The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental human rights protected by law. Still, there are concerns that the government may resort to high-handed tactics, as seen in previous instances of peaceful protests being violently quelled.
The legacy of the #EndSARS protests is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in Nigeria, with a call for the government to choose the path of reform and protect the rights of its citizens.
