What is happening in Nigeria #endSARS

Akwaaba! Welcome back! Glad you stopped by for another read.

Today's post is basically an informational one which includes my personal thoughts and opinions about a situation that I am appalled by.

Nigeria is currently experiencing high levels of police brutality and unrest as a whole. This is as a result of the actions of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). This squad was essentialy created in 1992 to fight violent crime in the country. Unfotunately, it has actually become the source of a great deal of violence and police brutality.

Several Africans and Nigerians have taken to Instagram and Twitter to share their experiences over the years with SARS. They are abusing their power by bullying, detaining, raping, extorting and stealing money from citizens. It is very unfortunate that these officials are mirroring the actions of those they were set up to stop. Visit Twitter! These stories will shock and probably upset you!

Source: https://www.instagram.com/missbakare/

On October 11, #SARS was officially dissolved as a result of protests and actions of Nigerians, Africans and the social media world as a whole. Good news right? Wrong! The fight is not over. This does not mean that #policebrutality in Nigeria is cancelled forever. It means we need to keep pushing for change and the protection of our loved ones.

My thoughts-- It is extremely unfortunate that the same people who are meant to protect us are the ones hurting us. I do think that the government and leaders have the overall power to change this. We can protest, fight and speak our minds all we want. However, it is up to the government to listen to our grievances and fix it! Seeing all our "mothers" (older ladies, market women...) protesting is so admirable and amazing to me! Thank you to the celebrities world wide who are using their voice and influence to help push this agenda. It is working so let's keep going.

Source: https://www.instagram.com/missbakare/

In my opinion, President Buhari needs to do more. This is his time to show the people that he truly cares. Nigerians need protection, love, togetherness and peace. He simply can't be sitting down watching his people get shot at- I find that hard to believe, disappointing and disgusting. He has several shortcomings as a leader so this situation just amplifies it. We are looking at you Mr President- show us something.

Everyone loves a good African song, dance move, meal, wedding- in fact the culture as a whole. Let's keep the same energy in this situation. Our African society needs the support of all diasporans and non-Africans.

We can rise above this! We never know who the next victim may be. Speak up, protest, educate, donate! Do your research and stay up to date. This is just another hurdle in 2020.

May God protect Nigeria, Africa and the world. Amen.

May all the souls of the departed as a result of these injustices rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Together we rise!

#endSARS

#endpolicebrutalityinnigeria

#policereforms

Until next time,

Be you, do you, stay you!

Adwoa.