A history of police brutality. Bad governance. Social and economic disparities. A sweeping range of other issues. Fed-up youths. All are key ingredients in the peaceful #EndSARS protests ballooning across many Nigerian cities.
Appalled by years of unrelenting police brutality and tactics to disrupt peaceful #EndSARS protests across Nigeria, NG Voices helps us to tell authentic stories of the #EndSARS movement in a variety of native languages.
The website is a statement on the importance of truth in a country where traditional media is sanctioned for disseminating information on protests to scrap the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of its Police.
As the protests grew, rather than adopt a conciliatory approach, suspected government-hired agents have killed and injured a number of demonstrators. For instance, at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State on October 20, 2020, armed men, believed to be members of the Nigerian Army, shot live rounds at unarmed protesters while they sang the National Anthem and waved the Nigerian flag.
Thankfully, the voice notes, broadcast messages, and posters on NG Voices refute false information, distortions, and denials surrounding the #EndSARS protests by perpetrators of police brutality, the Nigerian authorities, and paid supporters of SARS.
The information on the website reflects the deep passion for undiluted truth and an end to police brutality. It’s more than a collation of voice notes and texts, it’s an experience. This sentiment is felt in each language and once shared on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms, encourages a resolve to better Nigeria.
The interactive elements of the messages draw visitors into the world of history-perfect precision in native languages such as Efik, English, Enuani, Esan, Hausa, Igala, Igbo, Ika, Jukun, Nupe, Pidgin, Tiv, Urhobo, Yala, and Yoruba. Languages are updated regularly, so visitors can always come back if theirs is not on the website.
The website’s attention to detail, flat minimalist design approach, subdued color palette, and micro-interactions also convey the simple message of truth and hope.
Throughout the one-page website, NG Voices takes visitors on a journey covering what really transpired at the #EndSARS protests, what Nigerians should stand for, and how they can transform lives with their voices.
Overall, NG Voices gives ample credence to the popular African proverb that says, “until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter.”