2 hours ago
32
Sunday, the Lagos State police command released at least 22 individuals who had been detained during the #EndSARS memorial protest at the Lekki tollgate area. These arrests were made as protesters called for the full implementation of the findings from the judicial panels set up following the 2020 protests.
The crowd had gathered around 8:30 am to commemorate those who lost their lives during the 2020 police brutality protests. Four years ago, thousands of Nigerians took to the streets to oppose the actions of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), which had been accused of various forms of police misconduct.
According to a report by Amnesty International, at least 12 protesters were killed in 2020 when Nigerian security forces fired upon them at the Lekki tollgate. On Sunday, security forces prevented the protesters from marching through the tollgate, leading to the detention of several demonstrators, including the organiser of the memorial event.
One protester stated, "We demand justice for those who lost their lives. The findings of the judicial panels must be fully implemented." The peaceful gathering was intended to honour the memory of those who had died and to press for accountability and reform within the Nigerian police force.
The judicial panels were established to investigate cases of police brutality and to recommend appropriate actions based on their findings. However, protesters argue that the government has not fully implemented these recommendations, and they continue to call for comprehensive reforms.
As the crowd was dispersed by police officers, tensions remained high. Demonstrators vowed to keep pushing for justice and accountability, emphasising the importance of keeping the memory of the #EndSARS movement alive.
)
English (US) ·