Police disperse #EndSARS anniversary protest in Lagos, arrest activists

On Sunday, the Lagos State Police Command used tear gas and made multiple arrests to disperse protesters rallying at Lekki Toll Gate to mark the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS movement, which gained international attention in October 2020.

Videos from the scene captured demonstrators fleeing as tear gas filled the area, and shots were fired into the air.

Among those arrested was activist Hassan Soweto, who, speaking from a Black Maria, described being beaten by police without provocation. He questioned when commemorating the dead had become illegal in Nigeria and called on the international community to pressure the Nigerian government to stop the attacks on peaceful protesters.

Protesters had gathered at Lekki Toll Gate carrying banners and placards demanding justice for victims of police brutality and the implementation of reforms promised by the government after the 2020 protests. The #EndSARS movement initially erupted in response to abuses by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), leading to protests across Nigeria, culminating in the tragic Lekki Toll Gate shooting, where security forces allegedly opened fire on peaceful protesters.

Despite judicial panels established to investigate the 2020 incidents, many of the panels’ recommendations have yet to be implemented, leaving protesters frustrated. Benjamin Hundeyin, Lagos State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, defended the police action, stating that the protesters were causing traffic disruptions and refused to disperse when instructed.

The rally highlights ongoing frustrations among activists who continue to seek justice for the victims of the Lekki Toll Gate shooting and demand accountability from the Nigerian government.