Police Brutality in Nigeria: Violence is NOT the Answer to Violence

Changing Trends

The protests against police brutality, which started early October 2020, have gained national and international recognition and traction, and there are little signs the struggle is abating. In recent times, there are reports of violence against fellow citizens going about their businesses. Some images of alleged damage to property, especially vehicles of individuals, and government agencies, are on social media. There are also reports, in a few places, of the threat of violence against ordinary people caught up in the milieu. 

Fundamentals

In a democratic society, there should be freedom of expression, and people should be able to protest against any policies or programmes that are not acceptable. Such civil expression is a hallmark of real democracy which must be upheld at all times. Protesters should be protected and allowed the environment to express their views and disapproval of any situation, such as in the ongoing "ENDSARS protests", the signature for an end to all forms of police brutality and corruption in the country.  It is equally essential that the demonstrations are peaceful and devoid of harassment and violence against members of the public or government officials or property.

Dynamics

So far, most of these protests across the nation are peaceful and should remain so. However, there is an allegation that some elements may have infiltrated the demonstrations to foment trouble and discredit the struggle with instances of alleged armed thugs attacking the protesters and other members of the public. Concerned authorities will need to support the peaceful protests by working with the organisers of this genuine struggle in fishing out bad actors that are stirring up trouble and may attempt to hijack the process. The Nigerian youth want to have a future. They need a tomorrow where they can move about freely without hindrance, harassment and brutality; where there will be equal opportunity to grow and develop; and a future where there won't be any need to be connected to the politicians and the corridors of power before they could make a living. The youth are demanding for merit, equity and justice.

Insight

Therefore, "ENDSARS protest" is a symbol of a more profound struggle for survival and not a call to violence. Whether on the protesters' or the government's side, any resort to violence will be counterproductive as it'll set the entire process and whole nation backwards. The toll on human lives and property will be catastrophic. 

Violence is NOT the answer. #ProtestsNotViolence.