In its quest to challenge police brutality and uphold human rights, #EndSARS activists have filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian police over the illegal arrest and assault of 22 peaceful protesters during the #EndSARS anniversary commemoration on October 20, 2024, at the Lekki Toll Gate.
According to the movement’s organising committee, the protesters—including several of their members—were subjected to severe beatings and sexual harassment by a police contingent led by the Commissioner of Police and CSP Adetayo Akerele, head of the task force.
Determined to enforce their fundamental right to peaceful assembly, the group has engaged legal counsel, Barrister Joseph Opute, to file a fundamental rights action suit on their behalf. The court has scheduled a hearing date for Monday, March 24, 2025, at the Ikoyi High Court in Lagos.
The group also announced plans to hold a peaceful rally outside the courthouse as the hearing proceeds, calling on the public and media to join them in solidarity and to provide coverage of the event.
On behalf of the Organising Committee, Hassan Taiwo Soweto said the lawsuit is not just about the 22 protesters but about defending the fundamental rights of all Nigerians to peaceful assembly and freedom from state violence.
