NIGERIANS FLOOD SOCIAL MEDIA TO MARK SIXTH ANNIVERSARY OF #ENDSARS PROTESTS

By NaijaParrot October 20, 2026 

 LAGOS, NIGERIA — Nigerians have taken to social media to commemorate the sixth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests, remembering victims of police brutality and renewing calls for justice, accountability and comprehensive police reforms. The anniversary, observed on Tuesday, October 20, marks six years since the 2020 demonstrations against police brutality, particularly abuses associated with the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police Force. The hashtag #EndSARS has been trending alongside related hashtags, including #LekkiMassacre, #EndPoliceBrutality and #NigerianLivesMatter, as users share memories, tributes and demands for justice.

The Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos remains a major symbol of the movement because of the shootings involving security personnel on October 20, 2020. The incident became a defining moment in Nigeria’s recent history, drawing international attention and intensifying calls for accountability over the treatment of protesters. Six years later, Nigerians continue to debate the events of that night and demand answers about the deaths and injuries associated with the protests. The Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry that investigated the incident found that protesters were shot at, injured and killed. However, aspects of the panel’s findings, particularly its conclusions about casualties, were disputed by the Lagos State Government.  

The anniversary also witnessed fresh tension at the Lekki Toll Gate after police operatives reportedly fired tear gas to disperse people gathered to honour victims of the 2020 protests. According to Channels Television, the gathering was organised to remember those who lost their lives and renew demands for justice and police reforms. Among those present were Lagos governorship candidates Funso Doherty of the Nigeria Democratic Congress and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the African Democratic Congress. The disruption forced participants to flee the area, although activists maintained that they would continue advocating for justice and accountability.  

Beyond online tributes, civil society organisations have renewed demands for accountability, compensation for victims and reforms aimed at preventing further abuses. Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), marking the anniversary, called on the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government to issue a public apology and pursue accountability for abuses associated with the protests. The #EndSARS movement led to the disbandment of SARS in October 2020. However, campaigners argue that ending the unit alone was not enough to address broader concerns about police conduct, accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights. As Nigerians reflect on the anniversary, social media remains a platform for preserving the memories of the protests and keeping demands for justice in public discussion. 

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