ABSTRACT
This chapter is on the protest in October 2020 by Nigerian youth against human rights violations committed by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit of the Nigerian Police. Even in the face of death, media censorship and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Nigerian youth did not back down in their fight for their dreams of systematic changes in policing and governance of the country. Unlike previous protests in Nigeria, the use of digital activism and the transnational backing changed the rhythm of the movement, demonstrating the utility of technology in fostering youth participation in security sector governance and sociopolitical reforms. The authors argue that the use of digital activism campaigns and the transnational support the movement gained from activists, politicians, and celebrities account for its initial successes. However, to instigate meaningful systemic reforms or policy changes, such digital activism campaigns must be sustained for the long term.
