Nigerian Skit maker and Nollywood actor, Mr Macaroni, has expressed concern over what he described as worsening socio-economic conditions and increasing division among citizens six years after the nationwide #EndSARS protests.
Speaking on Tuesday in an X post to commemorate those who lost their lives during the October 20, 2020 demonstrations against police brutality and extrajudicial killings, the content creator questioned the level of national consciousness among Nigerians.
He urged citizens to recognize the collective influence they hold in shaping the country’s leadership and future.
He said, “6 Years Later! We are still dealing with insecurity, hunger, poverty, lack of proper health care and the highest level of corruption and impunity. The saddest part is that we are even more divided as a people at a time when we should be most united,” he wrote.
“I hope one day we truly realize the power that we have as citizens and stop allowing a few selfish individuals destroy the success and prosperity of the majority of us.”
The #EndSARS campaign, which gained global momentum in October 2020, centered on demands for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a police unit notorious for human rights abuses, as well as broader governance and police reforms.
The protests culminated in a crackdown on October 20, 2020, when security forces opened fire on demonstrators gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos.
Nine people were confirmed dead, while four others were listed as missing and presumed dead following the Lekki Toll Gate incident.
The nine listed as dead include Victor Ibanga, Abuta Solomon, Jide, Olalekan Abideen Ashafa, Olamilekan Ajasa, Kolade Salami, Folorunsho Olabisi, Kenechukwu Ugoh and Nathaniel Solomon.
The four listed as missing and presumed dead were Abiodun Adesanya, Ifeanyi Nicholas Eji, Tola and Wisdom.
Although the Federal Government subsequently dissolved the SARS unit and promised structural reforms within the Nigerian Police Force, civil rights advocates and youth groups continue to observe the annual anniversary, insisting that key systemic issues, accountability for victims, and socio-economic pressures remain unresolved.
