For long, the African community has been fighting to restore and empower the girl child. For instance, Nigeria citizens protest after the rape and kill of three women. Activists say sexual violence and police brutality cases are high now more than ever. As a result, the social media flood with Nigerians complains after the glint outrage in the country.
According to reports, the rallies demand justice for Jennifer, Tina, and Uwa. Furthermore, celebrities also joined the virtual movement inspired by the Black protests in the United States. Jennifer, an eighteen-year-old, was allegedly assaulted and raped by five men in Northern Nigeria, Kaduna.
Fear as rape incidents rise.
At the moment, Nigerians are afraid as rape cases go on a hike. According to reports, Jennifer’s case gained interest after her relatives posted a video of her family confronting the teen. Sure, this is a result of fear that the accused would escape justice. The police arrested two of the men, and investigations are on for the other three suspects.
Likewise, people are out to express their anger for the other two cases. Tina Ezekwe- a sixteen-year-old high school student, killed after police opened fire at a bus station in Lagos during a Coronavirus curfew. After citizens cry out, the police force arrested two officers. The two are to face disciplinary action as well as prosecution.
Meanwhile, Vera Uwaila- a 22-year-old university student found dead in southern Edo state. According to reports, she was raped and beaten to death in a church. The case drew attention after a female blogger posted a message with hashtag’ justice for Uwa.’ However, the governor and police guarantee search for tracking down those responsible for the killing.
Citizen’s response.
For Nigerians, the internet is the key channel for protest because the streets often draw a punishing reaction by security officers. Segun Awosanya- the head of the Social Intervention Advocacy Foundation, says the social media is a tool to bring light in the country. Sure, once the light is on, the police cannot keep quiet. Instead, they have to go back and dig up the cases.
The protests in the US cities to demand justice for George Floyd push many Nigerians to action. Besides, this is a motivation to campaign more against rape, police brutality, and racial inequality. With more than 500,000 Twitter followers, Awosanya says this is the chance to share displeasure and pain. Women violence sparks online protests and taps into broader anger about the country’s current state.
Similarly, Nigeria biggest stars such as Tiwa Savage, Don Jazzy, Mr. Eazi, Rema, and Wizkid ditched their usual silence to speak out about these incidences. They all rally against rape in the country as well as police violence. For instance, Tiwa Savage reacts on her twitter page saying citizens are tired of senseless killings, young girls’ rape, and burning of houses. Wizkid also wrote on his page, taking straight aim at President Buhari.
Conclusion
Sure, it is time for African nations to fight against rape, racial inequity, and police brutality. After, all it all starts with you. Educate your friends, colleagues, family members, and neighbors. Try your best to make Africa a better place by rejecting this kind of culture. Remember, today’s actions play a vital role for a better tomorrow.
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