The #EndSARS protests that erupted in Nigeria in October 2020 were a turning point in the country’s modern history. What began as a call to disband the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) grew into a nationwide movement against police brutality, corruption, and government inefficiency. This article explores the events that led to the protest, the tragic Lekki Toll Gate massacre, and its aftermath, including the role of government officials, celebrities, and investigative panels.
The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), established in 1992, was originally created to combat armed robbery and other violent crimes. However, over the years, SARS gained notoriety for widespread abuse, including extrajudicial killings, extortion, and unlawful arrests. The tipping point came in early October 2020 when a video of SARS officers allegedly killing a young man and driving away with his car went viral. This sparked outrage, with young Nigerians taking to social media using the hashtag #EndSARS to demand justice.
Massive protests followed, with demonstrators calling for the dissolution of SARS and broader police reforms. The movement’s demands expanded to include accountability for government officials and better governance.
On the night of October 20, 2020, peaceful protesters gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos. They held the Nigerian flag and sang the national anthem, demonstrating their patriotism and commitment to non-violence. Suddenly, the lights at the toll gate were turned off, and CCTV cameras were reportedly disconnected by unknown individuals. Shortly after, security forces believed to be soldiers from the Nigerian Army opened fire on the protesters.
Eyewitnesses and video footage, including a live Instagram feed by DJ Switch, showed the horrific scene. Protesters were shot, some fatally, while others were injured as they tried to flee. DJ Switch, who captured the events live, later fled the country due to threats against her life and has remained in exile.
- President Muhammadu Buhari: As the President of Nigeria at the time, Muhammadu Buhari faced widespread criticism for his administration’s handling of the protests. His initial silence following the Lekki shooting further fueled public outrage.
- Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu: The Governor of Lagos State initially denied any fatalities at Lekki but later acknowledged that two people had died. His varying accounts raised questions about transparency. Reports also surfaced that his administration contracted a company to bury unidentified bodies in mass graves, though these allegations remain controversial.
- The Nigerian Army: Initially, the army denied any involvement in the Lekki Toll Gate shooting. However, during investigations, they admitted that soldiers were deployed but claimed they fired blanks, not live ammunition.
- The Committee of Inquiry: A judicial panel was set up in Lagos to investigate the Lekki Toll Gate incident and other cases of police brutality. The panel’s final report, released in late 2021, described the Lekki shooting as a “massacre” and provided evidence contradicting official denials of fatalities.
The #EndSARS protests gained global attention partly due to the involvement of celebrities and activists:
- DJ Switch: Her live broadcast of the Lekki shooting became a primary source of evidence, though it forced her into exile due to threats.
- Mr. Macaroni: The popular comedian joined the protests and used his platform to amplify the movement’s demands.
- Falz: The musician and activist openly criticized the government, calling for justice and systemic reform.
- Runtown, Tiwa Savage, and Burna Boy: These artists also participated in protests and brought international attention to the cause.
One of the most chilling allegations following the Lekki Toll Gate incident was that the Lagos State government contracted a private company to dispose of over 100 dead bodies. While the government has denied these claims, they remain a subject of intense scrutiny and have contributed to the perception of a cover-up.
Despite the disbandment of SARS announced by the government on October 11, 2020, many Nigerians remain skeptical, as similar announcements had been made in the past without substantive change. The Lekki Toll Gate incident left a lasting scar, symbolizing the government’s failure to protect its citizens and respect their right to peaceful protest.
The judicial panel’s report has been a step toward accountability, but its recommendations have not been fully implemented. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has been accused of clamping down on activists and freezing bank accounts linked to the protests.
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The #EndSARS movement remains a symbol of the resilience and courage of Nigerian youth. It highlighted the power of social media in mobilizing change and brought global attention to issues of police brutality and governance in Nigeria. While justice for the Lekki Toll Gate victims remains elusive, the movement’s impact continues to inspire calls for accountability and systemic reform.
