By Omoalu Victor
In the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, during October 2020, Olatunji Jeremiah Dada, a brave participant in the EndSARS protests, shared his harrowing tale of surviving a tragic night at the Lekki Toll Gate. This unforgettable account of courage amidst chaos serves as a testament to the resilience of those who fought for justice.
The EndSARS protests, a nationwide movement against police brutality in Nigeria, galvanized thousands of citizens, including Olatunji Jeremiah Dada. Together, they took to the streets, demanding an end to police brutality and justice for their community. Their voices, united in purpose, created a symphony of hope for a brighter future.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Olatunji found himself at the iconic Lekki Toll Gate, a symbolic site for the peaceful demonstrations. The atmosphere was tense as a government-imposed curfew loomed, forcing the protesters to make a difficult decision: disperse or stand their ground. Olatunji, unwavering in his resolve, chose to remain at the scene.
On October 20, 2020, a pivotal moment unfolded at the Lekki Toll Gate. As time passed, the situation grew increasingly dire. Figures in military uniforms appeared, casting a pall of anxiety over the assembly. Panic spread like wildfire as these armed individuals advanced, their weapons trained on the heart of the protest. In a shocking turn of events, gunfire erupted, plunging the crowd into darkness and chaos. Olatunji felt a searing pain in his left side as he collapsed to the ground, surrounded by the blood of his fellow demonstrators.
Amidst the bedlam and confusion, fellow protesters rushed to Olatunji’s aid. With their unwavering support, he was hastily transported to a hospital, where dedicated medical professionals fought valiantly to mend his injuries. The path to recovery stretched ahead, uncertain and fraught with challenges.
Yet, Olatunji’s ordeal did not end with his physical injuries. He faced persistent death threats and harassment from government authorities. Confronted with these dire circumstances, he made the difficult decision to relocate, seeking safety and respite from the relentless persecution.
Olatunji Jeremiah Dada’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who participated in the EndSARS protests. His resilience and determination, amidst the chaos and adversity, inspire hope for a brighter future in Nigeria, where justice and accountability prevail.
