On October 20, 2023, the Lagos State Police Command carried out arrests during the commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests, which were ignited by public outrage against police brutality in Nigeria in 2020. Over 18 individuals protesting at the Lekki Toll Gate were detained and subsequently transported to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) located in Panti, Yaba. The protests aimed to honor the victims of the original demonstrations that resulted in loss of lives and highlighted the ongoing issue of police violence. The arrests sparked immediate conversations about the right to peaceful assembly in Nigeria, particularly on such a significant date.
Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola, was present at the SCID, overseeing the release of the detained protesters. In a statement via social media, the police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the release and emphasized that the CP was there to ensure the detainees’ welfare. This proactive involvement by the police leadership contrasts with prior confrontational approaches often seen during protests and indicates a possible shift in handling public gatherings, especially concerning historical anniversaries that mobilize social movements.
The #EndSARS protests began on October 1 and reached a critical turning point on October 20, 2020, resulting in nationwide chaos and fatalities. Vigilant youth marked this anniversary with solemn gatherings, underlining the significance of remembering those affected by police violence. However, the police response was swift, involving tear gas and mass arrests, which are seen as tactics to suppress dissent. Prominent protest organizers, including Juwon Sanyaolu and Omole Ibukun, identified key arrested individuals such as Hassan Soweto, urging for their immediate release while defending the protesters’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The implication here is that rather than appearing as a threat, the movement is asserting its rights within the framework of Nigerian law.
The coordination and response from notable figures in the political and activist spheres further reflect the gravity of the event. Omoyele Sowore, a well-known political figure, shared his observations of police behavior during the arrests, including allegations of beatings and torture before their transfer to the SCID. His comments brought attention to the harsh realities faced by activists in Nigeria, potentially drawing more national and international scrutiny to police conduct during demonstrations. These reports of mistreatment serve to amplify calls for accountability and reform within the justice system, especially regarding the treatment of peaceful protesters.
Social media played a significant role in the unfolding of events, providing a platform for real-time updates and solidarity messages from supporters across Nigeria and beyond. Protesters shared videos and accounts of their experiences, highlighting both the determination to commemorate the lost lives and the oppressive response from the state. These interactions exemplify the growing connectivity among younger generations, who increasingly rely on technology to mobilize and advocate for change. The use of social media as an organizing tool marks a key development in Nigerian civil society’s approach to activism, tapping into global narratives for justice and human rights.
Ultimately, all of the arrested protesters were released following the intervention of activists and community leaders. The “Take It Back Movement” underscored the importance of this release, celebrating it as a small victory for civil liberties, albeit acknowledging the heightened risks associated with standing up for rights in an often hostile political landscape. This event has not only reignited discussions about police brutality and governance but also reinforced the resolve of Nigerian youth committed to advocating for systemic change and the protection of human rights in their nation. As the legacy of the #EndSARS movement continues to unfold, the battle between authoritarianism and activism remains a critical focal point for the future of governance and civil society in Nigeria.
