Nigeria is currently going through civil unrest that was sparked by the most vicious cases of police brutality we have ever witnessed.
A simple scroll down your social media timeline is all it takes to access graphic material showing the scale of the brutality many black Nigerians have suffered under the tyranny of the country’s Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
End SARS protests in Nigeria: What’s the latest?
As reported by BBC News, many cities in Nigeria have entered the 12th day of protests, calling for the disbandment of SARS and implementation of further reforms in public security.
President Muhammadu Buhari was quick to reciprocate these demands and from what we understand, the infamous police unit has been dissolved since Sunday 11 October 2020.
This retrospective action is not enough for protesters, however. The demonstrations that were held in most parts of Lagos and other regions have taken on a greater objective.
Now, it’s about holding the government to account on the way the country is run and calling for more reforms in other areas of governance.
The latest updates from Nigeria came on Tuesday evening when it was announced that Lagos would be placed under a 24-hour curfew.
While the curfew was delayed to allow protesters and other citizens to travel to their respective homes, we understand that other regions like the city of Jos and Ekiti state have followed suit with implementing the stay-home notice.
Here’s how you can help
- Use your voice
As we have seen in many protests, from Fees Must Fall to Black Lives Matter, the power of social media is unparalleled.
Your thoughts on the topic could spark a dialogue that holds the solutions to the problems faced by many. So, don’t be afraid to speak out about social injustices. Your individual voice is a vessel for change, use it.
- Stay informed
It’s very important to not use our powerful and influential voice to spew fake news. In the age of social media, it is very easy to come across inaccurate information and once we’ve spread it, there’s not much that can be done to undo the damage.
Only accept information that comes from verified and official sources. Reputable news outlets are the best source of information on social justice issues and do not, by any means, endorse something that is not supported by factual data.
- Donate funds
For those who want to go the extra mile and really reach the people affected in places like Nigeria, the best way is to donate funds to charity organisations.
In Nigeria, the Feminist Coalition has led fundraising efforts for the End SARS protests. The organisation provides on-the-ground support to protesters with food, health and legal services, security and other means of assistance.
Thus far, the organisation has raised more than R2.96 million. You can contribute towards this cause by making a donation on their website.