As the #EndBadGovernance protesters gathered in different parts of Lagos like Egbeda in Alimosho local government, Ikeja Under Bridge, Kudirat Abiola Way, Alausa, Oba Akran Road, a sense of unease settled over the city.
In all the places visited by Africa Health Report correspondent today, something was different. The police, determined to avoid the violence that had marred previous demonstrations like the popular 2020#EndSars, had deployed a massive presence, with officers in riot gear and armored vehicles lining the streets.
At first, the protesters were wary, their chants and slogans temporary. But as they saw the police’s calm and professional demeanor, they began to relax. The officers, it seemed, were not there to intimidate or provoke, but to protect and serve.
As the protest began to move through the streets in the areas visited by this reporter, the police expertly guided the crowd, using barriers and cordons to keep everyone safe. They engaged with the protesters, listening to their grievances and offering words of reassurance.
The atmosphere began to shift, the tension dissipating as the protesters realized that the police were to maintain peace. The chanting grew louder, but it was no longer angry or aggressive. Instead, it was a joyful, celebratory sound, as the protesters felt heard and seen.
One protester, a young man named Tunde, approached an officer and shook his hand. “Thank you for keeping us safe,” he said, smiling. The officer smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “We’re here to serve and protect,” he replied.
The smart phone of this reporter was seized by a policeman for taking pictures without their consent. A man named Olasunkanmi Abidemi, the Branch Secretary of NURTW, Alimosho Branch, came to plead on his behalf and the phone was released.
Abidemi spoke with AHR, saying they were there to ensure that everything went well without any forms violence. He said the atmosphere has been calm due to the policemen’s presence.
The police had taken control of the protest, but not in a way that stifled dissent. Instead, they had created a safe space for the protesters to express themselves, and in doing so, had helped to build trust and foster a sense of community. It was a small but significant step towards healing the wounds of the past, and towards creating a brighter future for all.
