By: Eberechukwu Ezennaya
Today marks exactly one year to the memorial #EndSARS protest that rocked the country in October last year.
Nigerian youths defied ethnic and religious differences, took to the streets to register their grievance over what they described as Police brutality and inhumane treatment meted out to ordinary Nigerians by men of the disbanded Special Anti Robbery Squad.
The peaceful march which speedily garnered momentum and support across various states of the federation was however interrupted by alleged shooting of unarmed protesters at Lekki Toll Gate by security operatives.
What is significant about this indelible event that has made a historic impact in national chronicles remains the resilience and unity of purpose displayed by the Nigerian youths.
The helpless but determined youths of Nigeria were able to force the state and federal government to pay maximum attention to their plight as it regards police brutality.
Responding to the corrosive agitation by these younger ones, President Muhammadu Buhari dissolved the Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) while directing all state governors to constitute a panel that shall thoroughly investigate every alleged case of brutality by men of the armed forces and ensure justice is rolled out for victims and families of Police brutality.
Nevertheless, sensible and well meaning Nigerians agree that there is more to what happened in October 2020 especially in chatting the course of the country for a better Nigeria.
Of course, the massive demonstration spurred off a heightened interest by the youths into the affairs of governance as Nigerian youths make calls for reengineering of the nation’s leadership landscape.
Clearly, the language of communication by the youths translates an unquenchable disposition aimed at taking over leadership responsibilities at the local and national levels by the younger Nigerians.
Therefore, as Nigerians and specifically the Nigerian youths engage in a one year commemoration of the #EndSARS protest, it is a strategic time to bring afresh to our mind what we dreamt and preached.
2023 is another golden moment of redefining Nigeria’s future, hence, all hands must be on deck to ensure that the labours of October 2020 shall not be in vain.
This implies that the oneness of purpose must remain strengthened and political participation must be consciously accelerated among the Nigerian youths.
While the ball remains in our court to decide the next crop of leaders for Nigeria in 2023, beyond carrying placards and banners along the streets, the need to introduce young, fresh, strong, vibrant and visionary leaders into seats of power is to unceasingly resonate in our subconsciousness and guide our relationships, choices and actions before, during and after the general polls.
Eberechukwu Ezennaya is a graduate of Education and Physics from the Prestigious University of Benin, Benin City. He’s also a member of the Association of Campus Journalists, UNIBEN. Eberechukwu Ezennaya is leading a growing social media outfit known as “political watch” aimed at creating political awareness mainly among Nigerian youths.