October 20, 2020, will forever leave a painful mark in the history of Nigeria, a night when the country wept and the rest of the world stared in shock and disbelief, one that will always bear the scars of a significant incident in the great nation. Once just another bustling route in Lagos, the Lekki Toll Gate has come to symbolize both tragedy and bravery. Unarmed protesters peacefully assembled under the green and white flag that evening, chanting the national anthem and calling for justice. However, the sounds of gunfire drowned out their voices, making them unheard.

The #EndSARS movement started out as a nonviolent appeal to stop the oppression, corruption, and police brutality that many young Nigerians had grown accustomed to on a daily basis. The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) had been harassing, extorting, and occasionally killing innocent citizens for years with no consequences. The young people, tired of living in constant dread, came together both offline and online with the same goal of creating a more secure and equitable Nigeria. Hope felt attainable for the first time in decades.

Then came the night of October 20. Videos of terrified protesters urging for peace while clutching, waving, hoisting and displaying blood-stained flags as gun shots rang out went viral online. Millions of hearts were broken in that moment. Many Nigerians began to doubt the very worth of human life in their own nation as a result of the government’s subsequent silence and denial, which made the suffering even worse.

However, something strong was created even amidst the disaster. Young Nigerians’ self-perception was impacted by the #EndSARS movement, which reminded them that speaking up was important, that togetherness and cooperation could topple the pillars of power, and that calling for justice was not a crime. New waves of activity and awareness are still sparked by the bravery of individuals who stood at the Lekki Toll Gate.

Yet, Justice is still elusive. The questions remain the same even after years have gone by: Who gave the order to shoot? Who will be held responsible for the deaths? And when will the whole truth be revealed?

In addition to being a day for mourning, October 20, 2020, is a day for remembering, calling for accountability, and making a commitment that such a catastrophe won’t occur again. Nigeria must never forget the voices that would not be muted or the blood that was shed for its future.

For we must always remember that until justice is done, the cries of that night will echo forever

Thrybchallenge #LekkiMassacre5Years #EndSARS

Happiness Vincent is a student of Mass Communications