Lagos Police warn against marking #EndSARS protests anniversary

Anthony Iwuoma

The Lagos State Police Command has warned residents of the state against staging any protest to mark the anniversary of the #EndSARS protest, which crippled the country last year.

Nigerian youths had thronged the streets in their thousands, in October, last year, in protest against  police brutality and demanding the disbandment of the Special Anti-robbery Squad (SARS).

However, the protests took a violent turn, resulting in massive destruction of public property and the killing of many youths.

Following reports that another protest is underway to commemorate the anniversary in memory of those who lost their lives during the protest, the Lagos State Police Command has issued a strong warning against such.

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In a statement released by its spokesperson, CSP Adekunle Ajisebutu, the Command said, “Nigerians cannot afford to relive the distasteful experience of last year’s protest which caused pain loss of properties.

“The Command wishes to use this medium to warn the youths, groups, or associations planning such protest to jettison the idea forthwith.

“The police in the state will not fold their arms and allow some misguided elements disrupt the peace and serenity currently being enjoyed in the state.

“Also, we will use all legitimate means within their constitutional powers to suppress the planned protest.

“Parents and guardians are advised to warn their children against participating in the planned protest.

“Lastly, Individuals or groups sponsoring such protest are also warned in their own interest to desist from such plans or face the law.”