Lagos Police Release 22 Arrested During #EndSARS Memorial Protest

Lagos State police have released at least 22 individuals who were arrested during a memorial protest for the #EndSARS movement on Sunday. The protest took place at the Lekki tollgate, a significant site linked to the tragic events of 2020.

The demonstrators gathered around 8:30 am to honor those who lost their lives due to police brutality. They called for full implementation of the recommendations made by judicial panels set up after the original protests.

In 2020, widespread protests erupted against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a police unit accused of numerous human rights abuses. According to Amnesty International, at least 12 protesters were killed at the Lekki tollgate when security forces opened fire on them during the protests.

On Sunday, the police intervened to prevent protesters from marching through the tollgate area. Officers detained several individuals, including the event’s organizer, as they attempted to commemorate the victims of police violence.

The memorial protests serve as a reminder of the ongoing calls for justice and accountability in Nigeria. Many protesters emphasized the need for the government to address the issues raised during the initial #EndSARS protests and to ensure the safety of citizens against police brutality.

Despite the police presence and arrests, the spirit of the memorial reflected the determination of many Nigerians to seek justice for the victims of past abuses and to push for reforms within the police force. The release of those detained highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement and citizens advocating for their rights.

Source: Africa News