Bisina SomtoThree years have passed since the nationwide #EndSARS protests rocked Nigeria, as citizens took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality and justice for victims.
However, as the world marks this somber anniversary, the shadow of injustice still looms large, with reports indicating that at least fifteen protesters arrested in 2020 remain arbitrarily detained in Lagos.
In what can only be described as a travesty of justice, many of these detained individuals have languished behind bars without trial, with the majority held in Kirikiri Medium Correctional Centre and Ikoyi Medium Security Correctional Centre.
Nigerian authorities have levied a litany of trumped-up charges, including theft, arson, possession of unlawful firearms, and even murder, against these protesters, further compounding the tragedy.
Amnesty International Nigeria has sounded the alarm, highlighting the ongoing human rights abuses. Director Isa Sanusi expressed deep concern over the situation, saying, “Our investigation shows the Nigerian authorities’ utter disdain for human rights.
Three years in detention without trial is a travesty of justice. This shows the authorities’ contempt for due process of law. The protesters must be immediately and unconditionally released.”
Among the detainees are seven #EndSARS protesters, including Daniel Joy-Igbo, who shared his harrowing experience. He has been held in prison since December 2020 without a trial date.
He is one of many who continue to suffer the agony of prolonged detention without due process. Sodiq Adigun, another protester, who was also arrested in October 2020, expressed his desperation for freedom, saying, “Let the government release me. I have been detained since 2020 without trial. I am innocent. My life has been shattered. I need my liberty.”
Eight more #EndSARS protesters, including Segun Adeniyi, Onuorah Odih, Jeremiah Lucky, Gideon Ikwujomah, Irinyemi Olorunwanbe, Quadri Azeez, Olamide Lekan, and Sadiq Riliwan, have faced the same fate. Detained without trial in Ikoyi Medium Security Correctional Centre, their situation is a stark reminder of the continued injustice.
Tragically, torture and ill-treatment have also marred the detention of many peaceful #EndSARS protesters. Oluwole Isa, currently held in Kirikiri Medium Correctional Centre, provided an account of his ordeal. He described being tied up, suspended, and brutally beaten while authorities tried to force him to confess to vandalism during the #EndSARS protests.
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Moreover, despite assurances of comprehensive police reforms in the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests, Nigeria’s police continue to violate human rights with almost absolute impunity.
As Nigeria reflects on the three years that have passed since the #EndSARS protests, it is evident that the quest for justice and reform is far from over. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, demanding accountability and upholding the principles of human rights and due process.
The #EndSARS movement’s demands for justice and change remain as relevant as ever, and the world watches with hope that Nigeria will heed their calls.
#EndSARS Background
On October 8, 2020, Nigerian citizens took to the streets to protest against the notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit of the Nigeria Police originally established to combat violent crimes.
Tragically, on October 20, 2020, a grim incident occurred in Lagos, resulting in the loss of at least 12 lives among peaceful protesters in Alausa and Lekki. This unfortunate event marked just one of the many tragic deaths that occurred across the country during the protests.
The victims of these incidents included not only peaceful protesters but also individuals believed to have been hired by authorities to confront the demonstrators.
In numerous cases, law enforcement and security forces resorted to excessive force in their efforts to control or disperse the protests. These events represented a dark chapter in Nigeria’s history, highlighting the urgent need for justice and reform.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
Somto is dedicated to providing valuable information and entertainment to her audience while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
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