Nigerians across the country and in the diaspora have taken to social media to mark the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests, honoring those who lost their lives during the October 20, 2020 Lekki Toll Gate incident.
The #EndSARS movement, which began as a peaceful demonstration against police brutality and extortion by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), turned tragic when security forces allegedly opened fire on unarmed protesters holding the Nigerian flag and singing the national anthem.
Eyewitnesses and video evidence shared widely on social media captured scenes of chaos, bloodshed, and confusion.
International news outlets, including CNN, later investigated the incident, releasing a detailed report that documented accounts from survivors and verified footage showing gunfire at the protest site.
Despite this, the Nigerian government, under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, repeatedly denied that any massacre took place, claiming that reports of deaths were exaggerated or false.
On October 20, 2025, Nigerians once again flooded X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook with emotional tributes and memories of the victims.
Many used hashtags such as #EndSARSMemorial and #LekkiMassacre to demand justice and accountability, while others called for continued reforms in policing and governance.
At various locations across Lagos and other major cities, small groups of citizens held quiet remembrance walks and candlelight vigils. Security was visibly tight in some areas, as authorities warned against large gatherings without official approval.
The #EndSARS anniversary remains a painful reminder of Nigeria’s struggle with state violence, civic freedom, and accountability. For many young people, the memory of October 20, 2020, continues to symbolize both the cost of activism and the ongoing call for a just and democratic society.
