SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUTH PARTICIPATION IN POLITICAL PROCESS

ABSTRACT

The #EndSARS protest in Nigeria was a watershed moment in the country's history, signifying the power of youth activism, social media, and grassroots mobilization in demanding change. The movement emerged as a response to the pervasive issue of police brutality and human rights abuses perpetrated by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). However, it quickly evolved into a broader call for accountability, good governance, and youth representation in Nigerian politics. The protest's impact was multi-faceted, triggering both positive policy changes and challenges in its wake. The Nigerian government responded to the protesters' demands by disbanding SARS, establishing investigative panels, and engaging with civil society organizations. The protest brought the issues of police reforms and governance to the forefront of national and international discourse, creating an opportunity for meaningful change.