Amnesty International has condemned the arrest of youths commemorating the EndSARS anniversary at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos State on Sunday, October 20, 2024.
The human rights group wrote on X:
“Amnesty International condemns the Nigeria police for the violent attack on people who assembled at Lekki Toll Gate to honour peaceful protesters killed during the #EndSARS protests against police brutality in Oct. 2020. The reckless use of tear gas and arrests are unacceptable.”
News Central reports that the #EndSARS protests began in October 2020, led mainly by young Nigerians who called for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) due to years of alleged misconduct and brutality.
Although the government eventually disbanded the unit, protests continued, highlighting ongoing issues of police impunity.
In response, the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu imposed a curfew and sent security forces to enforce it.
While dispersing the protesters, soldiers reportedly opened fire at the tollgate, resulting in casualties according to witnesses. However, officials have consistently denied that anyone was killed that night.
Since then, citizens have gathered annually to remember the victims. On the fourth anniversary, demonstrators returned to the site with placards in tribute.
However, police officers dispersed the crowd using tear gas and live rounds, and made multiple arrests.
Popular activist, Hassan Soweto, was among the over 20 people arrested at the Lekki Tollgate on Sunday.