Here’s Why You May Be Seeing #EndSARS All Over Social Media
Police brutality in Nigeria has sparked worldwide outrage, and many are using #EndSARS to spread awareness on social media.
Nearly two weeks ago, a video went viral of a police officer in Nigeria shooting a young man then taking his car, prompting the #EndSARS hashtag on both Twitter and Instagram. Since then, people around the world have been expressing their anger and informing others about the police brutality happening in Nigeria.
#EndSARS calls for the ending of the Special Armed-Robbery Squad, a branch of the Nigerian Police Force that was created to lower crime and armed robbery occurring throughout the country.
Instead, the force has been known to abuse their power and rob, kill, rape, and commit other heinous acts against innocent Nigerian civilians.
This really should be our flag going forward because it’s really representative of what nigeria is.
The hope of Peace & Progress marred by bloodshed. #EndSARS pic.twitter.com/ZViiFzkW5w
— A Fokken Queen (@cremechic11) October 21, 2020
Since the video was posted, widespread protests have been carried out throughout Nigeria. Unfortunately, the latest protest in the city of Lekki turned extremely violent after several unarmed peaceful protestors were shot by police.
People are being viciously murdered in Nigeria for protesting the injustice they face. They are at shooting protestors right now. Black lives matter GLOBALLY. Death to MF corruption!! #EndSARS
— the sun’s daughter (@ephrata) October 21, 2020
#EndSARS has caught the attention of celebrities and public figures, and many have spoken out to show their support of #EndSARS and the Nigerian people. Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Bella Hadid, and more have called for an end to police brutality in Nigeria.
Many are criticizing Beyonce for centering her work around African culture, but being silent and not using her large platform to spread awareness about the issue.
Beyoncé released an album,
Packed many nigerian artistes in it,
She was called “Mama Africa” by many.Today Nigeria bleeds.
Not one word from her. It’s sad.Some black american celebs only see Africa as a money-making idea; NOT a continent they believe in or a people they love.
— #OurFavEndSARSDoc (@DrOlufunmilayo) October 16, 2020
Due to the recent attack in Lekki, a 24-hour curfew is expected to be issued for Lagos and many are calling for Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to be removed from office as he remains silent and claims to have no knowledge of the violence occurring in his home country.
Let’s be clear about what happened in Nigeria today.
The government did not “watch” its citizens get killed.
The government planned and carried out a massacre on unarmed citizens.
The government was not a bystander. It was the perpetrator.#EndSARS #LekkiMassacre
— #EndSARS 🇳🇬✊🏿 (@AUmeakubuike) October 21, 2020
The police brutality happening in Nigeria is a reminder that the Black Lives Matter movement applies to Black people across the globe and not just in the United States, and we must stand in solidarity with those experiencing and protesting against racial injustice around the world.
Be sure to educate yourself about the #EndSARS movement and use the hashtag to spread awareness to those in your communities who may not be aware of what’s happening.
Writer | Tweet me @itsjadak
