Nigerians all over the country are taking a stand by going out on the streets to protest the unending brutality of the police. The #EndSARS movement is growing, and more people are joining their voices to speak up and demand police reform.
If you missed any of the events that have taken place so far, this article does a good job of breaking it down.
There are more peaceful protests scheduled to go on today, and in case you want to go out to join, here are a few things you’ll need to know and have.
1. Dress comfortably
A shirt with long sleeves, some jeans and a pair of sneakers are ideal for protest situations. You want to make sure that you’re dressed for mobility in case you need to run. You’re also not going to be in the most comfortable situation, so you need to at least have comfortable clothes on.
2. Wear a facemask
Don’t forget that we’re still in the middle of a pandemic. Remember to take as many precautions as you can.
3. Get a power bank
You’ll need a power bank for many reasons. First, you want to broadcast and share as much as you can for people who can’t attend the protests to re-share. Your phone needs juice. But more importantly, you’ll need a power bank so that if your phone dies, you won’t get stranded and be totally unreachable. If you have a “small phone” keep it on you.
4. You’ll need water and some snacks
Stock up on water. You’ll need lots of it for yourself and for other protesters. Some energy bars, biscuits and chocolates will also go a very long way.
5. Get an umbrella
The weather forecasts for a few places around Nigeria where the protests are happening, like Lagos, predict that there will be rain today and tomorrow. Get a small umbrella and have it handy.
6. A bandana might be useful
If something goes wrong, you might need to cover your nose or your eyes. Not everyone has a gas mask. A bandana might be a useful alternative.
7. Keep in touch with people outside – Share a live location.
You want your family and friends who are not at the protests to know your movements, whereabouts and condition. Communicate frequently. Share your live location on WhatsApp.
8. Have a valid means of ID
Carry around something you can show as ID. Your Drivers License, International Passport and National ID card are valid means of ID.
9. Hold some cash
For emergency purposes, you’ll need some cash.
9. Carry a backpack
A backpack will be very useful to store everything you’re carrying around. If you have one, carry it.
For your safety, please ensure the following:
And also, this:
Stay safe out there, folks!
