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The Nigerian army has expressed its readiness to move in against troublemakers as nationwide protests against police brutality and extrajudicial killings rage on.
Thousands of Nigerian youths have taken to the streets over the past week to protest against the actions of operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and demanding for immediate police reform. At least 10 people have died and scores injured during protest, which have been resisted by the police.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) had responded to the demands of the protesters by disbanding SARS. The IGP subsequently announced the formation of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team to fill void left by the disbandment of SARS. Despite the move, protests have continued unabated.
Reacting to the violence that have ensured, the Nigerian army on Thursday warned that it was ready to fully support the civil authority in whatever capacity to maintain law and order and deal with any situation decisively”
A statement by the army said, “All officers and men are directed never to be distracted by anti-democratic forces and agents of disunity.”
Videos surfaced online of groups armed with machetes and clubs attacking protesters in Abuja and Lagos this week. The development prompted fears that onslaught against the protesters could be intensified.
Volunteers have donated over £100,000 through crowd funding to send food, water and first aid supplies to protestors, and to cover medical fees for the injured while hundreds of lawyers have volunteered to represent those arrested.
This post was written by Obiajulu Joel Nwolu.
The views expressed here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect our views and opinions.