Sheffield shows that Nigerian lives matter with candlelight vigil

Sheffield’s End SARS protest took place outside the City Hall on October 23 and those in attendance lit candles to remember the peaceful protestors in Nigeria who suffered at the hands of the police and were murdered on October 20.

End SARS is a social movement that calls for the disbanding of the Specialist Anti-Robbery Squad, a unit within the Nigerian Police that has become known for its brutality.

Paula Melissa, who organised the vigil, said: “We showed that Sheffield cares and Nigerian lives matter. We don't have to mourn and grieve alone. We can hope together.”

She told how she was appreciative of those who came to show their support, whether they were Nigerian or not.

Paula added: “By lighting a candle, we are re-igniting hope into the hearts of many. We are conveying a message of peace and unity. We are mourning with those in Nigeria. Protesters are not left to grieve on their own. If they’re hurting, we are hurting.”

End SARS protests have taken place all over the world but it was Sheffield’s turn last week.

Condolences and words of encouragement were shared, and a list of victims’ names and prayers were read out.

Together they remembered those who have sadly lost their lives to police brutality.

For more information on how you can show support, see: https://endsars.carrd.co/

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