It’s October 20, a date etched deeply into Nigeria’s modern history.
Across the nation and online, conversations are reigniting as Nigerians remember the #EndSARS protests.
This is a movement that began as a cry against police brutality but evolved into a symbol of youth resilience, activism, and the demand for good governance.
Whether you were on the streets in 2020 or watched it unfold online, the memory of that movement remains a defining moment for this generation.
Here are five key things to know about the #EndSARS movement as we mark its memorial today:
1. It All Began as a Hashtag
What started in 2017 as a simple hashtag,#EndSARS , on social media soon became a powerful rallying cry.
Also, the call was to disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
This is a police unit accused of harassment, extortion, torture, and extrajudicial killings.
By 2020, the hashtag had transformed into a full-blown youth-led movement, drawing global attention to Nigeria’s policing system.
2. The Protests Were Entirely Youth-Driven
The #EndSARS protests were unique for being leaderless, peaceful, and digitally coordinated.
Young Nigerians, influencers, and volunteers organised everything, from food and medical care to legal aid and media coverage.
Also, they uses social media as their control centre.
The movement showed the power of unity, transparency, and technology in modern activism.
3. The Lekki Toll Gate Incident Changed Everything
October 20, 2020, remains the darkest moment of the movement.
Protesters gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos were reportedly fired upon by security forces while singing the national anthem and waving the Nigerian flag.
Also, the incident sparked national outrage and international condemnation.
This makes “Lekki Toll Gate” a global symbol of resistance and remembrance.
4. The Aftermath and Government Response
Following the outcry, the Nigerian government announced the disbandment of SARS, but new security units soon emerged under different names.
Judicial panels were set up across several states to investigate police brutality, but implementation of their recommendations has been slow.
The aftermath also saw crackdowns on activists, freezing of accounts, and digital censorship attempts.
5. The Legacy Still Lives On
Four years later, #EndSARS continues to influence civic conversations in Nigeria.
From music and film to art and political debates, its message echoes: “Soro Soke” — Yoruba for “Speak Up.”
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It inspired a new wave of political awareness among Nigerian youth, who remain vocal about leadership, governance, and human rights.
