On October 20, 2024, police in Lagos dispersed a peaceful gathering at the Lekki Toll Gate commemorating the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests. Activists called for implementing judicial recommendations on police misconduct. The police arrested 18 protesters, citing a lack of proper authorization for the demonstration.
On October 20, 2024, a group of demonstrators gathered at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos to mark the fourth anniversary of the #EndSARS protests, which were ignited by demands against police brutality. The purpose of the gathering was to honor those who lost their lives during the 2020 protests and to advocate for the implementation of recommendations from various judicial inquiries into police misconduct.
Despite the peaceful nature of the gathering, the Lagos State Police Command intervened, stating that the demonstrators had not obtained the necessary authorization for their protest. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong reported that around 18 activists, including Comrade Taiwo Soweto, were arrested during the event. He condemned the police actions as unconstitutional, alleging that some protesters faced brutality and were taken to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Yaba.
In response, Police Commissioner Olanrewaju Ishola defended the police's actions, asserting that any public assembly requires prior notification. He acknowledged the constitutional rights of citizens but emphasized the importance of adhering to legal processes when organizing protests.
The police had deployed personnel to strategic locations to preempt any potential disturbances. Ishola assured Lagos residents of improved security measures aimed at maintaining public order, underscoring a strict approach to preventing disruptions.
