It tells a different story
A reflection on the #ENDSARS protests
There are moments in a nation’s story that we must hold unto. We remember these moments and bask in these moments, not to run away from the realities that still exist, but as a reminder of the good that we are capable of. We can draw strength from these moments because these moments point us to who we want to be. They are snippets of the New Nigeria that we, as a people, demand.
The #EndSars movement of October 2020 was full of these moments. Of the many, I speak on a few.
A people unified by one cause
In this image taken from the scene of the protests, you see a people united regardless of their differences in tribes, religion, and economic class.
The major topic prior to every election I have been alive to see is zoning. Zoning in Nigerian politics is the rotation of the home area of the president between the north and south of the country. While I can concede that there is some, albeit little, merit to the idea, it connotes that Nigerians are incapable of transcending their differences and uniting behind our common interests. The political elite have pushed this story so much so that it becomes believable.
These protests tell a different story.
A people that thrive regardless of religious difference
There were several reports of the protesters pausing for their Muslim brothers and sisters to observe their prayers only for the same gesture to be reciprocated by the Muslim brothers and sisters on Sunday when the Christians wanted to pray and worship their God.
With a political elite adept in the game of divide of conquer, the narrative of religious tensions does not end. If you listen to the news enough times, you will inevitably believe that your Muslim neighbour believes in the same evil doctrine as the Boko Haram terrorists. You will believe that it was impossible for Muslims and Christians to live harmoniously in a secular state.
These protests tell a different story
A people that care for the elderly
It is morally right for a country to care for its elderly beyond the expedient, albeit well-meaning prayer for long life.
The large number of cases of unpaid pension that frequents the news tells the story of how the current ruling class continues to fail at this moral responsibility.
During the protests however, a different story is told
There was the viral story of the efforts to raise money to support the elderly groundnut seller who was hawking during the protest. This singular action demonstrates that we can be a people that responds to our moral responsibility to our senior citizens.
A people that care for its citizens with disabilities
The story of Jane and Charles Nnaman is a moving story. They were out to protest despite the difficulty of their disability. It was reported that Jane had since lost her job and Charles had his prostheses broken by the police at a protest. Yet, they continued to show up and join in making demands of the system.
Nigerians saw that. Their reaction was not to ask that the government do something about it. Their reaction was to pool the funds and do something about it themselves.
In that moment, there was a foreshadowing of a Nigeria that cares for all its people regardless of their varying forms of physical ability.
A people with powerful women
I remember in 2016, the president, Gen Muhammadu Buhari made a telling comment in response to his wife’s criticism of his government. His comments were dismissive. Her political input was not useful. “She belonged to the kitchen, living room and the other room.” Unfortunately, this foolish and harmful story of what rooms the African woman should be in is told too often.
These protests tell a different story.
In many ways, these protests were a testament of the wisdom, power, and fortitude of the Nigerian woman. They did it all. From organizing, to funding, to spreading the word globally, they were involved. Even after the massacre at the gate, they led the line to ensure that the injured protesters were taken care of.
I know these moments may not take away from the pain that the murder at the toll gates caused. I know these moments may not put food on our tables. I know.
But still, I am drawn to bask in these moments.
They add hope to my sorrowful tears. They provide clarity to my fight. I hope it does the same for you.
