No Justice for Lekki Toll Gate Victims: EndSARS Movement Continues the Fight
Introduction
Three years after the tragic killings of peaceful protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate during the EndSARS movement, justice still eludes the victims and survivors. Dabiraoluwa Adeyinka, a prominent human rights activist and EndSARS protester, highlighted this distressing reality during a recent interview.
Addressing the Continued Injustice:
Adeyinka lamented the lack of accountability for the events that unfolded during the protests in October 2020. The Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) had a notorious reputation for their inhumane treatment of Nigerian youths, which ultimately led to nationwide protests. Speaking on Arise News during the third memorial of the incident, Adeyinka urged the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that those responsible for the tragic events at the Lekki Toll Gate are held accountable.
Doubts About the Dissolution of SARS:
Adeyinka also expressed skepticism about the dissolution of SARS, emphasizing that incidents involving police misconduct still occur. She recounted her recent encounters with non-uniformed policemen at Mile 2 and Alaba Expressway, where they subjected her and her assistant to unnecessary and aggressive searches. These incidents raise concerns about the effectiveness of the purported SARS dissolution.
The Ongoing Call for Police Reform:
Reflecting on the goals of the EndSARS movement, Adeyinka emphasized that their primary aim was to advocate for comprehensive police reform in Nigeria. Reforms were seen as vital to ensure that the police force operates in a manner that upholds the rights and dignity of citizens.
Assessing Progress in Police Behavior:
Adeyinka acknowledged some progress in the behavior of the police but pointed out that the improvements have not been significant. She noted that the last few months of President Tinubu’s administration showed some positive developments but emphasized that more substantial changes are needed.
Demanding Answers for Lekki Toll Gate Shootings:
One of the central demands of the EndSARS movement is justice for the Lekki Toll Gate victims. Adeyinka questioned who ordered the shooting and stressed that the new administration must provide answers. She highlighted the need for transparency and accountability to address the concerns of Nigerian citizens.
Continuing the Fight for Justice:
Adeyinka underscored the importance of documenting the events and seeking justice for the victims. She emphasized that the fight for justice will persist until it is served, especially in cases where mass burials are necessary due to the tragic events that transpired during the protests.
Conclusion: The quest for justice in the aftermath of the Lekki Toll Gate tragedy remains an ongoing battle for Nigerian activists and citizens. Adeyinka and others continue to demand accountability and transparency from the authorities. The fight for justice and police reform in Nigeria remains a critical issue that will persist until concrete actions are taken.
