by Jude Nwosu Eke
In October 2020, Nigerians took to the streets to protest against police brutality, especially involving officers of the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The #EndSARS movement — which actually started a few years before the 2020 protest — went into full swing from October 8, 2020 with demonstrations across major cities in the country.
The protests gained widespread acceptance both on the streets and on social media as celebrities added their voices in support of the movement.
On October 11, 2020, Adamu Mohammed, the former inspector-general of police, announced the disbandment of SARS, and on the same day, the protesters presented a five-point demand to the federal government.
However, despite the disbandment of SARS, the protests continued because Nigerians didn't believe in the sincerity of the government .
In the days between October 9 and October 22, 2020, while peaceful demonstrations continued in parts of the country, violent attacks were unleashed on protesters, passers-by, motorists, among other categories of persons by Nigerian security agents.
Following the protests, hundreds of arrests were made but there were declarations by government officials in some states for several persons to be released.
However, some persons remained in custody for various categories of offences linked to the protests.
There were reports that Mgbemena Gerald Obumneme a trader, born on 24 January, 1992 who was arrested in 20 October 2020 was released on 24 August 2021 after torture and brutality by security agents for standing up in defense of democracy.
Mgbemena Gerald Obumneme who was unlawfully detained and was not charged to Court by security Officials, labeled him as one of the organizers of the peaceful protest in his neighborhood seeking a cessation of Police brutality and anti-democratic tendencies of the government towards her citizens.
Despite his release from detention, the Security operatives continue to monitor his movements and following him to everywhere he goes.
The activities of security agents to Mgbemena which puts his life in great danger is an infringement on his fundamental human rights and freedom to life.
Peaceful participants of EndSars protest are currently in hiding leaving their houses for fear of being killed for standing up against police brutality.
It is very unfortunate that Nigeria has become increasingly unsafe for citizens who criticize the government.
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