There are two major highlights of the previous year: Covid-19 and protests. It is paradoxical when you think about these two events. The former cautioned against mass gathering and introduced social distancing; while the latter embraced assemblage and united humanity in ways like never before. In years to come, fables will surely be told of the victims, heroes and survivors of this era.
The year 2020 was truly a year of activism. You may forget the regimented lockdown experience but you can’t possibly forget the series of protest that occurred. In some part of the world, there were anti-lockdown protests. Apparently, it is a breach of fundamental human rights to restrict movement of citizens. So, these anti-lockdown protests were justifiable; the protesters were right (after all, they weren’t toddlers in a cradle).
The government-imposed lockdowns caused rallies in front of government buildings, on major highways and in the streets. Some people even combined pleasure with protest relishing the warmth of the summer beach.
Memorable among the series of protests was the Black Lives Matter movement. The movement began in the United States following the killing of George Floyd, but later became a global demonstration. This act of police brutality and racial discrimination in Minnesota, USA which took the last breath of Floyd inspired youths in Nigeria to speak up (soro soke).
The Nigerian version of protest against police brutality and bad governance was tagged #EndSARS. Although, the #EndSARS protest had a tragic end, it exposed the ineptitude of the Nigerian government and most importantly revealed the strength of solidarity. Lagos was the center stage of the #EndSARS protest but the world were active spectators.
We have been schooled in 2020 — I say this as a Nigerian. I envisage a spiral of activism in 2021, beginning with USA of course, if (or when) Trump delays concession. You don’t need a bloodhound to smell the impatience of pro-Biden’s supporters.
In Nigeria, youths are already adopting new methods to protest and still stay alive. We want a better country but dread a repeat of the 20-10-20 Lekki killings. Here are seven tips to stage a smart and peaceful protest:
- Trust the law.
You shouldn’t become the pain you fight. It’s crucial that the laws guiding the community are understood by all. If a permit is needed, get it. If number restriction is imposed, obey it.
This doesn’t mean docility. Even in your doggedness and persistency, always bet on the law. Best scenario, either you get a good lawyer or convince aggrieved legal practitioners to support your cause.
- Dress for the occasion.
Think of a group of women attending a wedding ceremony in uniform attires (aṣọ ẹbi). These women have a sole purpose: To steal the show. Right? Protesters should have the same outlook — like, literary have a dress code. This way the wedding crashers can be separated from the well-wishers. You get the picture?
The outfit is a form of communication. Other means of communication should also be devised for security purposes. Inventing a language is another security measure, though impracticable.
- Select a leader.
A protest is many things but not an avenue to gain Twitter followers. Understand that we can’t all be leaders, but we can do our bits. Protest needs hierarchical organization involving a chain of communication and representation.
Like a wolf pack, the leader should have the most commanding aura with a clear sense of purpose. The leader can then assign roles to a competent team to handle various aspect of the protest. There must be assigned peacekeepers in all corners to talk to the police and public. Role assignment should only be given to those able to distinguish between pronouncing “protesters” and “protestants”.
Also note that wearing a neat suit doesn’t characterize leadership qualities.
- Ring the bells.
There no such thing as a one-man protest. Even with a clear sense of purpose, you need an army to join the movement. Forming an army entails more than just tweets and online petitions. The right orientation to educate and fire up the populace is essential towards the success of the protest. Possibly, every street and corner should have posters with the details of the protest. This period of publicity will determine the degree of support or opposition from the community. The social media cannot be brushed off when ringing the bells.
- Stay safe.
Believe it or not, protest comes with risks. This is why there are more online protesters than physically present ones. You might be singing the national anthem and still be endangered. You might be dressed in the valiant national colors and still be targeted.
Understand that a protest isn’t worth the life of anyone. It rest on the leaders to maintain orderliness and not provoke violence during the protest.
- Create a platform.
The spread of fake news needs to be mitigated (and eradicated). During the #EndSARS protest, the SoroSoke radio broadcast programmes aimed at educating and communicating with protesters. They also coordinated protest activities nationwide. SoroSoke radio was loud, but still lacked credibility. Protests should have a stronghold of truth that no lies or politicking can refute.
- Get a PVC.
PVC may stand for Primary Voting Credential or Permanent Voters’ Card. Just ensure to get one and use it wisely.
EVERY THOUGHT 