Activists have defied threats of clampdown by the police as they post the program of events to mark the one-year anniversary of the #EndSARS protest. The protest held in the country between October 8 and 20, 2020.
The announcement comes after a warning by the Lagos State Police Command that they would resist any form of #EndSARS protest in the State.
They vowed that they will not fold their arms and allow some misguided elements disrupt the peace and serenity currently bing enjoyed in the state.
The 2020 protest was a public outcry for an end to police brutality, extrajudicial killings, extortion and abuse of power by officers of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The protest which started off peacefully led to the disbandment of SARS by the Federal Government. Unfortunately, the demonstration got hijacked by hoodlums who burnt down police stations, public facilities and engaged in a looting spree.
The protest was brought to a halt on the 20th of October, 2020 when officers of the Nigerian Army shot at the protesters at the Lekki tollgate and allegedly killed and injured many of the protesters who were mainly youths.
Flyers shared on social media show that the events for the ‘#EndSARS anniversary loading’ will begin with a Juma’at service on the 15th of October at the Juma’at Suaadr Central Mosque, Ojota, Lagos.
It will be followed by traditional rites on October 16 at the New Africa Shrine in Agidingbi, Lagos. On October 17, a church service will hold at the Logos Christian Centre in Oregun, Lagos.
Punch reports that memorial protests will hold in major cities like Ibadan, Port Harcourt and Abuja. The activists will also host an event at the Lekki tollgate, Lagos on October 20.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu had stated on Monday that, “credible intelligence at the disposal of the Command has revealed clandestine plans by some youths, individuals or groups to embark on protest in commemoration of one year anniversary of #EndSARS.
“To forestall breakdown of law and order, the police will use legitimate means within their constitutional powers to suppress the planned protest,” Odumosu added in a statement made available by Adekunle Ajisebutu, Police Public Relations Officer in Lagos.
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