Five years after the #EndSARS protests that rocked Nigeria and drew global attention to police brutality, leading activists Aisha Yesufu, Rinu Oduala, and Mr. Macaroni have taken to social media to commemorate the anniversary and honour those who lost their lives during the demonstrations.
The activists, who were among the prominent figures of the 2020 movement, used the occasion to reflect on the events of October 20, 2020 — particularly the tragic incident at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos — and to express frustration over what they described as the government’s continued failure to deliver justice and meaningful reforms.
Rinu Oduala, one of the organisers of the Lagos protests, wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Five years on, we can only remember to resist. It shouldn’t have been at the expense of your lives. Many deniers of your deaths are still in power. We failed you and Nigeria failed us all.”
Her remarks captured the sentiment of many young Nigerians who believe justice remains elusive for victims of the Lekki Toll Gate shooting, where security forces allegedly opened fire on peaceful protesters.
Comedian and activist Mr. Macaroni also expressed anger over what he described as continued oppression and impunity among the political elite.
“Nigerian youths lost their lives, jobs, families, and dreams at the hands of the most corrupt and evil people we call leaders,” he wrote. “Even though my people are now in love with their oppressors, this day, 20/10/2020, is never to be forgotten nor forgiven.”
Similarly, Aisha Yesufu condemned what she called the government’s ongoing repression, accusing authorities of perpetuating the same injustices that sparked the protests five years ago.
“Five years ago, the Nigerian government shot unarmed protesters, and today the Nigerian government headed by an illegitimate president is shooting unarmed protesters,” she posted.
The #EndSARS movement, which began as a peaceful campaign against police brutality and extrajudicial killings by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), quickly grew into a nationwide demand for accountability, good governance, and youth inclusion in leadership.
Although the government announced the disbandment of SARS in 2020, activists insist that the promised police reforms remain largely unfulfilled, and that the spirit of #EndSARS endures as a symbol of resistance and hope for a better Nigeria.
