Three years after the #EndSARS youth-led protests against police brutality in Nigeria, 15 protesters are still being arbitrarily detained by the police, according to Amnesty International.
Development Diaries reports that most of these protesters are being detained without trial in the Kirikiri Medium Correctional Centre and the Ikoyi Medium Security Correctional Centre in Lagos.
It is understood that many of the protesters have been charged with false accusations by the police, including theft, arson, possessing illegal firearms, and murder.
The #EndSARS movement highlighted broader issues like systemic corruption, inadequate training, and a culture of impunity within the Nigerian police force.
After the protests, the Nigerian government set up judicial panels of inquiry at the expense of public funds, promising a lot of juicy assurances.
However, panels’ recommendations on police brutality never saw the light of day, and police brutality and extrajudicial killings by police officers have continued.
Since the protests, many people who have attempted to exercise their right to peaceful protest have repeatedly faced threats, harassment, and intimidation from the police.
Many Nigerians have consistently recorded more cases of police brutality in different parts of the country despite the disbandment of the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit, while many are arrested arbitrarily and are left to suffer in detention.
Three years later, the business of extortion, oppression, corruption, unethical behaviour, misuse of authority, human rights violations, and complete disregard for the dignity of other citizens is still going strong.
Since 2020, a large number of peaceful #EndSARS protesters have suffered from torture and other cruel treatment while in custody.
The #EndSARS movement was a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s struggle against police brutality, but the battle is far from over.
Nigerians, particularly the youth, have continued to advocate for comprehensive police reform, transparency, and accountability.
Ultimately, the fight against police brutality in Nigeria is a fight for human rights, justice, and a safer, more equitable society for all.
It serves as a reminder that the struggle for justice is an ongoing process, and it takes the collective efforts of citizens, activists, and policymakers to effect lasting change.
Development Diaries calls on the President Bola Tinubu-led government to ensure the implementation of recommendations made by the investigative panels and genuine reform of the police.
Also, the Nigerian police must ensure the immediate release of #EndSARS protesters still arbitrarily detained in various detention centres across the country and ensure adequate compensation for the victims.
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