By Clement Nwabuko
In a turn of events that has sparked widespread attention, six #EndSARS protesters were recently released after spending nearly four years in detention. Their release contradicts the long-standing claim by the Nigerian Police that no #EndSARS protesters were still being held in custody, highlighting the ongoing complexities and struggles surrounding the 2020 protests against police brutality.
The #EndSARS movement, which erupted in October 2020, was a nationwide protest against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit of the Nigerian Police Force notorious for extrajudicial killings, extortion, and human rights abuses. The protests, which drew massive support both within Nigeria and internationally, culminated in the infamous Lekki Toll Gate shooting on October 20, 2020. This incident, where security forces allegedly opened fire on unarmed protesters, led to a widespread crackdown by the authorities.
Amidst the chaos that ensued, many protesters were arrested and detained, some without trial or access to legal representation. For years, their whereabouts remained unclear, with government officials and police authorities repeatedly denying that any #EndSARS protesters were still in custody. However, the recent release of six individuals has cast a spotlight on these denials, raising questions about the transparency and accountability of law enforcement agencies.
The release comes on the heels of sustained pressure from human rights activists and public figures, most notably Senator Shehu Sani. On June 12, 2024, during the Democracy Day celebrations, Sani made a passionate appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to intervene in the cases of #EndSARS protesters who were still languishing in detention. His appeal was seen as a crucial reminder of the unfulfilled promises of justice and the need to address the grievances that fueled the #EndSARS protests in the first place.
“Democracy Day is not just a celebration of our democratic gains, but a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by our youth, especially those who stood up against oppression during the #EndSARS protests,” Sani remarked. “I urge President Tinubu to ensure that every protester still in custody is released and that their rights are restored.
”The six protesters, who were released under unclear circumstances, have since recounted harrowing tales of their time in detention. Speaking to journalists, one of them described the conditions in which they were held as “inhumane” and “unbearable,” with little access to basic necessities and legal aid. They also revealed that they were often moved between different detention facilities, making it difficult for their families and legal representatives to locate them.
Human rights organizations have expressed outrage over the fact that these individuals were held for so long despite repeated assurances from the police that no #EndSARS protesters were still in detention. Amnesty International Nigeria, which has been at the forefront of documenting human rights abuses in the country, called the release a “vindication” of the concerns raised by activists over the past few years.
“The release of these six individuals is a reminder that the struggle for justice in Nigeria is far from over,” said Osai Ojigho, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “While we are relieved that they have finally regained their freedom, we remain deeply concerned about the lack of accountability and transparency in their detention. The Nigerian government must ensure that all those responsible for their unlawful detention are held accountable.
”As news of the release spreads, it has reignited calls for a comprehensive review of the cases of all those arrested during the #EndSARS protests. Activists are demanding that the government not only release any remaining detainees but also provide compensation for the years they lost in detention and hold accountable those responsible for the violations of their rights.
The #EndSARS movement may have begun as a protest against police brutality, but it has since evolved into a broader struggle for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria. The recent release of the six protesters serves as a poignant reminder that the fight for these ideals is ongoing, and that the voices of those who stood against oppression must not be forgotten.
As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the protests and the ongoing challenges to democracy, the stories of these six individuals underscore the importance of vigilance and perseverance in the quest for a more just and equitable society. Their release, while a cause for celebration, also calls for renewed efforts to ensure that the injustices they faced are never repeated.
In conclusion, the release of the six #EndSARS protesters marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for justice and human rights. It exposes the contradictions in the official narrative and highlights the need for continued vigilance in the fight against oppression. As Nigeria moves forward, the lessons of the #EndSARS protests must be remembered, and the sacrifices of those who stood up for justice must not be in vain. The journey is far from over, but the release of these six individuals is a step in the right direction, a reminder that change is possible, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
