How Grand Theft Auto is helping Nigerians survive rampant police abuse

A Reflection of Reality: Gaming and Life in Lagos

In the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria, Sodiq Taiwo finds himself navigating a world where the lines between reality and virtual reality blur. As a digital marketer and gamer, Taiwo’s life intersects with the harsh realities of police harassment and the cathartic escape offered by video games. One evening, while waiting for Grand Theft Auto V (GTA) to install, he watches children playing "police and thief" outside his window, oblivious to the real-life struggles their game reflects. Later, in an Uber, he encounters a TikTok video by TacticalCeza, a Nigerian streamer using GTA to roleplay as a policeman, mirroring the same harassment Taiwo had just experienced. This moment encapsulates the dual reality faced by many young Nigerians, where gaming becomes a mirror to their daily lives.

Satire as Social Commentary

TacticalCeza’s rise to fame is rooted in his unique blend of satire and gaming, offering a lens through which Nigerians can view their societal struggles. His roleplay server, "Made in Lagos," recreates scenarios of police harassment, drawing from personal experiences and online stories. This approach not only entertains but also educates, providing comfort to viewers by acknowledging their shared reality. However, Ceza’s use of satire isn’t without controversy, as seen in an apology video where speculation arose about coercion, highlighting the risks of critiquing authority in Nigeria. His work aligns with a tradition of Nigerian artists using their craft for resistance, from music to film, evolving storytelling to address systemic issues.

Gaming as a Form of Activism

Globally, gaming has emerged as a powerful tool for activism, surpassing traditional media in reach and revenue. In Nigeria, this medium reflects the reality of many young people, offering a space to confront issues like police brutality. TacticalCeza’s roleplay serves as both a mirror and a megaphone, amplifying tales of injustice. While some worry humor might dilute the message, scholars like Joost Vervoort argue that playfulness allows for a unique perspective on life’s absurdities, fostering cultural and political critique. This form of activism not only provides catharsis but also builds communities that can influence societal norms.

The Power of Satire in a Dire Reality

The #EndSARS protests in 2020 brought Nigeria’s police brutality to the global stage, yet little has changed. TacticalCeza’s work fills this void, using satire to shed light on systemic abuse. His narrative reflects the resilience of Nigerians, who find solace in humor amidst hardship. By blending pop culture with gaming, Ceza reaches a broad audience, offering a platform to discuss uncomfortable truths. While the gravity of his message risks being overshadowed by humor, its impact remains undeniable, providing both education and reassurance to his viewers.

A Virtual Space for Coping and Connection

For individuals like Taiwo, gaming offers more than escape; it provides a communal space to process frustrations. Engaging in GTA roleplay, Taiwo faces virtual harassment that mirrors real-life encounters, yet finds solace in the knowledge that it’s not real. This duality allows him and others to laugh at a harsh reality, finding comfort in shared experiences. The game becomes a coping mechanism, offering a space to confront and understand their world without real-world consequences.

The Future of Digital Activism in Nigeria

As gaming grows in Nigeria, it signals a cultural shift, with figures like Ceza at the forefront. His work not only reflects current realities but also points to the potential for global impact. Streaming and gaming are evolving into powerful tools for activism, offering new visibility to Nigerian issues. While challenges remain, the medium’s ability to inspire change is evident. For Taiwo and many others, gaming is more than entertainment—it’s a beacon of hope and a catalyst for dialogue, proving that even in the face of adversity, digital spaces can foster resilience and unity.