The End SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) campaign against notorious Nigerian police brutality gained momentum online first – and before long, peaceful protestors poured into the streets.
Soon a need for food, medical supplies, and legal aid created a need for financial support. But in no time, something questionable started happening.
Suspected interference from powerful players inhibited donations from reaching the front lines. Thinking quickly, it was young people who saved the day with an ingenious fundraising strategy.
Internet savvy protestors took to online forums like Twitter to gain support for the cause – correcting the spread of misinformation and circumventing the meddling authorities. They then requested donations of support be pledged using the popular cryptocurrency, bitcoin! What was the impact?
Their massive coordination and transparency generated a bitcoin balance worth $387,000, Quartz Africa reports!
The astounding effort also legitimizes cryptocurrency as a form of monetary exchange in a marketplace where prior schemes may have tainted its reputation.
The youths’ ingenuity invigorated a movement that affirms that when it comes to fighting for liberation, wherever there’s a will, there’s always a way!