Memo to President Muhammadu Buhari, by Frank Ofili

Your Excellency,

I come in peace, to once again offer my candid advice.

The ongoing #EndSARS is of much concern to all peace-loving Nigerians. This protest has gone on too long sir. It is time to do something.

I know you have already done something by conceding to the principal demand of the protesters, which is to disband SARS. You have shown good faith but it is unfortunate they have not taken it. They want more. A tactical mistake in my opinion.

I personally think they should have accepted your gesture and make a strategic withdrawal by way of giving you the benefit of doubt to enable government look into their other demands. But since they have not heeded wise counsel, I advise you once again avail them the opportunity to hear directly from you. Please address the protesters directly. You have already delayed for too long, but I guess you have good reasons for the delay.

And now that violence has been introduced into the protest, it is even more imperative for them to hear directly from you. It will do your government much good.

Please do not wait any longer. And I do not mean address by national broadcast. I mean direct address specifically targeted at the protesters. You may do so from Aso Rock courtyard. Or in the press galleria full of journalists. Or even Eagle Square. But let the address not be made from your seat in your office sir.

And while you are at the address, please make firm promise to investigate extra-judicial killings by operatives of the now defunct SARS. Promise justice and compensation for the families of the victims. Promise a new Police force. Scrap the hastily constituted SWAT and have, in your hand, a comprehensive police reform bill which you intend to send to the National Assembly within 48 hours.

I wish you good luck sir.