#EndSARS Just the Beginning, Nigeria Needs Complete Restructuring, Says Maverick Activist Charly Boy

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As vigorous protests continue across Nigeria against rogue police officers accused of brutalizing many Nigerians, musician and activist, Charly Boy, has applauded what he called the awakening of the youth to “take their destiny in their own hands.”

Many protesters are not satisfied with the government’s pledge to disband the infamous police anti-robbery unit known as SARS, and President Buhari’s speech promising extensive reforms has done little to placate angry young Nigerians, who have been blocking major routes in cities and towns across the country.

“I’m happy with what’s playing out,” Charly Boy said in an interview with ARISE News. “The youth are beginning to show me that their mumu don do (enough is enough). Enough of their non-engagement. Enough of their docility.”

Born Charles Oputa, Charly Boy is no stranger to protests. For decades, he has been an advocate for challenging bad governance and has encouraged defiance against the political establishment. He began the movement (and coined the slogan), “Our Mumu Don Do” to fight against corruption and injustice in public offices in the country.

Although it’s been a long time coming for Charly Boy, he says he is “very proud” that young people are finally “finding their voice” and standing up for themselves.

“That means my work for 45 years… is all amounting to something. People’s anger and frustration- that is what we’re beginning to see because there’s nothing right with this system anymore.

“I’m encouraged by the enthusiasm of young people to take their destiny in their own hands because that’s the only way… So the youths have to take their destiny in their own hands,” Charly Boy said.

For the maverick singer, actor, and entertainer, the #EndSARS campaign, as well as protests across Nigeria and in Nigerian diaspora communities against police brutality, is “just a trigger, not the main fight.” He is calling for a complete overhaul of the system; for the young population to continue to demand good governance and transparency from their leaders.

“It’s either we restructure this whole thing and start all over, or start to rebuild from the ground,” he said.

“Nigeria, get ready, it’s going to get rough. It’s not just about ending SARS, it’s about everything wrong with the system.”

The hashtag ‘End SARS’ and ‘End Police Brutality’ has been the top trend on social media, especially on Twitter, for almost a week. It’s still trending, with more celebrities both in Nigeria and abroad showing their support for the movement daily.

Although the government says SARS will be disbanded, Charly Boy says it’s not just about the rogue police unit. He is encouraging Nigerians to see the bigger picture.

“This is just the beginning. The End SARS campaign is just a trigger. A trigger for bigger things to come.”

Charly Boy also expressed delight that Nigerian celebrities are also joining in the protests against Police brutality in Nigeria.

Rita Osakwe

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