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Amnesty International has admitted that security operatives killed scores of peaceful protesters in two locations in Lagos State on Tuesday.
This was disclosed in a statement by Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Osai Ojigho on Wednesday, noting that the killings occurred at Lekki toll gate area and Alausa where multitude of Nigerian youths have staged peaceful protest against police brutality and demanding for a reform of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
According to Ojigho, their findings which were informed by eyewitness, video footage and hospital reports revealed that the Nigerian military shot at thousands of people who were peacefully protesting as part of the #EndSARS movement in the late hours of Tuesday.
“Witnesses at the Lekki protest grounds told Amnesty international that soldiers arrived at about 6:45pm local time on Tuesday evening, and opened fire on #EndSARS protesters without warning.
“Eyewitnesses at Alausa protest ground said they were attacked by a team of soldiers and policemen from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Unit at about 8:00 pm, leaving at least two people dead and one critically injured.
“Opening fire on peaceful protesters is a blatant violation of people’s rights to life, dignity, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Soldiers clearly had one intention – to kill without consequences,” Ojigho said.
He added, “Amnesty International received reports that shortly before the shootings, CCTV cameras at the Lekki toll gate, where #EndSARS protesters had been camped for two weeks, were removed by government officials and the electricity was cut – a clear attempt to hide evidence. As in previous cases documented by Amnesty International, some of those killed and injured at both grounds were allegedly taken away by the military.
“These shootings clearly amount to extrajudicial executions. There must be an immediate investigation and suspected perpetrators must be held accountable through fair trials.
“Authorities must ensure access to justice and effective remedies for the victims and their families.”
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.