Take-It-Back!! Fellow Nigerians, By Sydney Usman Godwin | Sahara Reporters
As we stand at the crossroads of our nation's history, it is imperative to acknowledge the collective efforts of our people to reclaim their rights, demand good governance, and salvage what is left of our beloved country. Since 2019, Nigerians have taken to the streets, braving the odds, to exercise their fundamental right to peaceful protest.
In the face of adversity, our citizens have shown remarkable resilience and determination. The following FEW notable protests have defined our quest for a better Nigeria:
1. Revolution Now Protest (2019-2020): Led by Omoyele Sowore, this movement galvanized Nigerians to demand systemic change and good governance. The call for revolution resonated with citizens who yearned for a new era of leadership and accountability.
2. #EndSARS Protest (2020): This widespread movement that was started by Omoyele Sowore, Sydney Godwin, Raphael Adebayo, Aisha Yesufu and other on October 8, 2020 at the Police Headquarters, Abuja, shook the nation and the global community as citizens demanded the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) due to egregious allegations of police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and extortion as well as a change of the criminal justice system and the unproductive govt style. The #EndSARS protests highlighted the urgent need for police reform, respect for human rights and good structured governance.
3. End Bad Governance Protest (2024): Nigerians took to the streets to express their frustration with economic hardship, insecurity, and poor governance. While some Citizens were killed by the police for merely protesting and scores injured and detained, more citizens demanded better living conditions, accountability, and transparency from their leaders.
4. October 1 Protest (2020): On Nigeria's Independence Day, the Take-It-Back Movement alongside the Revolution Now group, led by Omoyele Sowore organized protests to highlight pressing issues like poverty, corruption, and insecurity. These protests served as a poignant reminder that our nation still has far to go in achieving true freedom and prosperity as against our self acclaimed independence.
5. #EgbetokunMustGo: This campaign targeted the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, with protesters calling for his removal due to concerns over police conduct, his incompetent handling of security issues and his overstayed service year. The demand for accountability from law enforcement agencies is a testament to Nigerians' desire for a safer and more just society.
6. #OccupyDSS: Protests and campaigns calling for reforms and actions related to human rights abuses and political detentions which highlighted Omoyele Sowore's ordeal, have become increasingly prominent. Nigerians are demanding that the Department of State Services (DSS) respects human rights and upholds the rule of law instead of intimidating citizens for political actors.
These protests demonstrate the unwavering commitment of Nigerians to reclaiming their country and building a better future. We commend the courage and determination of our citizens who have bravely spoken truth to power.
As we move forward in preparation for more actions, we urge citizens to come out in their millions as to bed this disaster and maladministration, once and for all.
Sydney Usman Godwin