As the protests sparked by the vexation over the alleged violent killings and extortion by the contentious special anti-robbery unit of the Nigeria Police known as SARS or FSARS sweep across the country, I think it is time for some state-wide introspection.

First is an understanding of the key players in this movement. There is a dissident faction on the streets who are so “fired up” and unrelenting in their quest to not just EndSARS but to also vent their frustrations on the state of the nation. You also have a large population of the country who for many reasons can’t be on the streets but are assiduously protesting “at heart”.These groups are playing their part but behind the scenes.

The second is to rethink the efficacy of the protest thus far. Amidst the successes made, can we call it Uhuru yet?

Following a painful history of recent unsuccessful protests by young people in our nation’s history, and a global history that one in four nonviolent campaigns since 1900 was a total failure, ill Xray 4 reasons why this protest needs a rethink in strategy.

1. THERE IS A RISING INFILTRATION OF AGENT PROVOCATEURS

The protest is getting infiltrated by agent provocateurs whose intention is not in sync with the original objective. In a bid to ruin the reputation of what has been built by the original protest, Gudu junction was set ablaze by persons whose physiognomy screamed violence. Lekki Tollgate has become a haven of narcotics and other psychoactive users.

The identities of this “protest saboteurs” remain a debate. Whether they are inserted by politicians or a case of rogue protesters simply acting on their accord. one thing remains common. THE PROTEST IS NOW HURTING THE PROTESTER.

How long before the movement is discredited? How can the real protesters be differentiated from looters, destroyers of public and private critical infrastructures?

2. LACK OF LEADERSHIP

Every protest is a project and for any project to be deemed successful, there has to be a leadership structure that will drive it forward. I smile sadly inside when I hear spectators say that the leaderless protest engulfing the country today is good for agitations and a strategy in itself. Not it isn’t.

The leader is half of the revolution itself, alongside the cause upon which the uprising stands. As the face of the revolution, the leader provides direction to the masses in the squares and streets.

3. THE AGENDA IS NOT DEFINITE

The people are on the street but they don’t know why. There’s no efficacy because the demands aren’t clear enough. I was worried we started the #EndSars toga. I told my close friends that path was risky as it was going to just be a pure case of medicating the symptoms. Why push for #EndSars when we could have pushed for #EndPoliceBrutality

The older generations are asking the question that seems to be making a mockery of us – what do you want? As I type this article, it is still unclear what we want. That in itself is a stab to this protest and it’s hurting it. Success will be far with hydra-headed demands. No protests in history succeed without a defined goal.

What do we really want?

4. THE PROTEST IS NOW INSPIRING FEAR INSTEAD OF HOPE

Lately, the emotions of the protest have been uninspiring. We have witnessed an alarming uptick in incidents of armed protesters asserting that their right to bear arms trumps every other right including the right to public health and safety.

These peaceful protests have descended into chaos, calling into question the efficacy of violence when it comes to spurring social change.

Malcolm X (protester extraordinaire) once opined that “Nonviolence (Protest) is fine as long as it works”. A keen observer not carried away by the emotional stirrings that is associated with minor and major demonstrations would agree that the protest is not working. It is gradually losing its bearing.

Protesters are yet to intelligently drive home their demands as such must likely they will continue to march in circles if no systematic approach is adopted. For a movement to gain support and inspire lasting change, peace and consensus are essential components.

In the coming hours, I will explain why we should move from #SoroSoke to #SoroLoriTable

©️ Segun Oduyemi, Lagos Nigeria 2020

This article is sponsored by SAME GROUNDS, a movement that advocates that young people should organize more intelligently.

News

Obeena Delivers Show-Stopping Performance at Igbotic Game Night in East London

Published

3 weeks ago

19th August 2026

Usman Oladuntoye

East Ham, East London — 8 August 2026: The vibrant Igbo community in the UK came together for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, culture and social connection at Igbotic Game Night, one of the biggest social gatherings celebrating the Igbo community in the United Kingdom.

Among the night’s standout moments was an electrifying performance by Afrobeats artist Obeena, who took the stage and immediately captured the attention of the crowd.

Obeena delivered performances of two of his hit songs, “Wara Wara” and “Banging,” bringing his energetic sound and distinctive stage presence to the event. From the opening moments of his set, fans responded with excitement, singing along, dancing and enthusiastically supporting the artist.

His performance of “Wara Wara” created an instant connection with the audience, while “Banging” took the energy to another level. Obeena’s ability to engage the crowd transformed his set into one of the most memorable entertainment moments of the evening.

Held in East Ham, East London, on 8 August 2026, Igbotic Game Night provided a unique platform for members of the Igbo community to celebrate their heritage while enjoying music, games and social interaction. Events such as this continue to play an important role in bringing together Nigerians and the wider African diaspora in the UK.

For Obeena, the performance was another opportunity to showcase his growing artistry and connect directly with fans. His energetic delivery, stage confidence and ability to command the audience demonstrated why his live performances continue to attract attention.

By the end of his set, Obeena had left the crowd amazed and added another memorable chapter to his journey as an Afrobeats artist. His appearance at Igbotic Game Night was not simply a performance—it was a celebration of Nigerian music, culture and community.

With performances like this, Obeena continues to demonstrate his ambition to take his sound beyond the studio and onto major stages, connecting with audiences through music, energy and an unmistakable African identity.

Igbotic Game Night brought the Igbo community together. Obeena gave them a performance to remember.

News

Afrocentric Music Festival Invites 1,000 Music Artists!

Published

3 weeks ago

19th August 2026

Usman Oladuntoye

Are you a rising African artist ready to take your career to the next level? Showcase your talent on a massive stage at the AFROCENTRIC Music Festival in Abuja, running from November 7–18, 2026! Presented by NICOCUSA’s AFROCENTRIC Cultural Expo, this premier platform is inviting 1,000 up-and-coming artists to perform live before tens of thousands of music lovers, industry insiders, and energetic fans. Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity to launch your music career on a global stage—slots are limited, so visit afrocentricculturalexpo.com to register today, and follow us on social media for live updates!

Audio

KenryWhite Releases “Kilometers” & “The King” A Powerful Double Release Celebrating Faith, Purpose, and the Journey to Greatness

Published

4 weeks ago

13th August 2026

Usman Oladuntoye

Nigerian Afrofusion artist KenryWhite unveils his compelling two-track release, “Kilometers & The King,” a project that explores the realities of life’s journey while affirming identity, faith, and purpose.

Leading the release is “Kilometers,” an uplifting anthem that reflects on the distance between dreams and fulfillment. Through heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and vibrant Afrobeats production, KenryWhite encourages listeners to embrace the process, remain resilient, and keep moving forward despite life’s challenges.

Complementing the project is “The King,” featuring Wonder J. The record is a bold declaration of confidence, royalty, and divine purpose, blending infectious Afrobeats rhythms with inspiring lyricism. Together, the duo delivers a record that celebrates self-belief, leadership, and the mindset required to overcome every obstacle.

With rich storytelling, memorable melodies, and contemporary African sounds, “Kilometers & The King” showcases KenryWhite’s artistic growth while delivering music that inspires, motivates, and connects with audiences across the globe.

Now available on all major streaming platforms, “Kilometers & The King” invites listeners to embrace the journey, recognize their worth, and walk confidently into their purpose.