Lagos police have dispersed crowds and arrested demonstrators during the #EndSARS memorial protest, as citizens gather to remember victims of police brutality and demand justice.
Protesters convened at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos on Sunday to commemorate the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS movement.
The memorial honored those who lost their lives during the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in October 2020.
Reportedly, the youths assembled at the toll gate around 8:30 am carrying numerous banners and placards. They called for the complete implementation of reports submitted by various judicial panels of inquiry established following the 2020 protests.
Reports emerged that police officers broke up the demonstration and arrested several participants.
Inibehe Effiong, a human rights lawyer, alleged that operatives of the Lagos State Police Command detained approximately 18 activists, among whom was Comrade Taiwo Soweto.
He characterized the protest as peaceful and claimed that police used excessive force against some protesters, detaining several at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Yaba, Lagos.
He stated that the actions of the police operatives were unconstitutional and unacceptable.
He posted on X, “Comrade Hassan Taiwo Soweto and 17 other activists have been detained at the Lekki Toll Gate.”
“They were subjected to brutality and are currently being held by the police at State CID Panti for participating in an event commemorating the Lekki Toll Gate Massacre.”
“They were completely peaceful and did not disturb public order in any manner. We will take all legal steps to ensure their release. This situation is both unconstitutional and unacceptable.”
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However, the police authorities criticized the demonstrators’ assembly, labeling their actions as unlawful.
The Lagos State Police Command stated that the protesters failed to seek police authorization and approval in writing before proceeding with the demonstration.
According to Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola, speaking with Channels Television, “In accordance with constitutional requirements, they must inform me as the Police Commissioner of their plans. They did not provide such notice; therefore, any gathering is considered illegal and will consequently be prohibited by police.”
The CP clarified that the police authorities are aware of citizens’ constitutional rights, but emphasized that when exercising these rights, individuals must prioritize adhering to the laws of the land above all else.
He stated that police officers have been stationed in key areas of the state to prevent any potential disruptions to law and order.
“Our information came from social media, where some individuals have expressed a desire to commemorate the fourth anniversary of EndSARS.”
“We arrived here at midnight and have secured the usual spots around Lagos where protesters typically assemble. While we respect individuals’ rights to protest, it’s crucial that these activities adhere to the law. That’s our primary reason for being present today.”
Everything is going smoothly with no disruption being accepted here or across the state. Earlier today, I visited various parts of Lagos including key locations like Gana Park, Freedom Park, Ikeja Underbridge, Alausa Mall, and government infrastructure sites where they might attempt to confront me.
“We have secured the entire area and have Lagos under surveillance from a security standpoint. I assure the people of Lagos that they will witness improved policing, giving them pride in being residents here. This state is efficient, and no one can disrupt governmental actions,” he stated.
