Peaceful Protest; Lifeblood of Democracy

In October 2020, Nigeria witnessed a significant shift in civic engagement as youths took to the streets en masse to demanding an end to police brutality and broader governmental reforms. This peaceful protest movement, known as #EndSARS, represented a watershed moment in our nation's history, highlighting the power of collective action and the urgent need for responsive governance.

The protests began as a call to disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a police unit notorious for its human rights abuses. However, they quickly evolved into a broader indictment of systemic corruption, economic mismanagement, and the erosion of democratic norms. Young Nigerians, found their voice and used it to challenge the status quo with remarkable discipline and organization.

The government's response to these peaceful demonstrations was both disproportionate and deeply troubling. Security forces employed excessive force, including live ammunition, to disperse crowds. The tragic events at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos, where several protesters were killed, stand as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those who dare to speak truth to power.

History has repeated itself this 2024. Citizens have again taken to the streets to protest the bad governance and the inflation in the country. Security forces have again treated protesters the way they treated them in 2020; shooting with live bullets at unarmed protesters.

At every protest, the likelihood of misconduct is high and cannot be ruled out but that does not mean security forces should fire and kill citizens.

This heavy-handed approach not only violated the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens but also struck at the heart of democratic principles. The right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression are not mere luxuries in a democracy; they are its lifeblood.

These freedoms serve as crucial checks on governmental power, ensuring that leaders remain accountable to the people they serve. When a state responds to peaceful dissent with violence, it betrays the very ideals upon which democratic governance is built.

The contrast with other African nations is instructive. In Kenya, for instance, sustained protests against economic hardship and political corruption in 2023 led to meaningful dialogue between the government and opposition leaders and same thing happened in 2024. While not without tension, this process resulted in tangible policy changes. The Kenyan example demonstrates that when governments engage constructively with citizen concerns, positive change is possible without resorting to repression.

As we reflect on these events, it becomes clear that the path to genuine democracy is often fraught with challenges. However, the courage displayed by my fellow youths in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration not just to their fellow citizens, but to people around the world struggling for justice and good governance.

Maybe one day, we will eventually get what we advocate for.