#EndSARS memorial protest met with police resistance at Lekki toll gate

Tensions flared at the Lekki toll gate plaza yesterday as protesters gathered to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS movement against police brutality.

The peaceful demonstration was met with resistance from the Nigeria Police Force, resulting in the arrest of 22 individuals. Protesters marched around the plaza, carrying placards and singing, before being confronted by the officers.

Eighteen males and four females were arrested and transported to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Yaba, Lagos. Among those arrested were Hassan Taiwo Soweto, Ilesanmi Kehinde, Uadiale Kingsley, and others who were demanding justice for victims allegedly killed during the 2020 protests.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police Olanrewaju Ishola, who was present at the scene, declined to comment on the arrests. The police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, also remained silent on the matter.

Protest leader Hassan Soweto alleged that the Commissioner of Police had ordered the use of excessive force against the demonstrators.

“My clothes were torn, my glasses were broken. Nigerians were beaten severely,” Soweto stated. He further criticised the police for taking injured protesters to the police station instead of seeking medical attention for them.

Another protester, Dele Obasola, shared his experience of being hit by a stray bullet during the 2020 protests in Surulere. He lamented the financial burden of his medical treatment and the lack of government support.

Prominent figures also joined the chorus for justice. Nigerian skit maker Mr Macaroni dedicated this year’s anniversary to PelumiOnifade, a young journalist who was allegedly killed. He called for the release of Onifade’s body to his family and an end to the injustice.

Legal expert Joseph Opute highlighted the ongoing issue of police brutality in Nigeria, stating that little has changed since the 2020 protests. He called for greater cohesion among civil society organisations to challenge police misconduct and advocate for reform.

“Nigeria is one of the worst countries to live in, in terms of human rights abuses,” Opute lamented, urging Nigerians to demand a better future for their children.

In a late development, the Lagos State Police Command announced the release of all arrested protesters. Command spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed that CP OlanrewajuIshola personally oversaw their release from custody.