By Milcah Tanimu
On the third anniversary of the tragic #EndSARS protest at Lekki Tollgate in Lagos, Nigerian comedian and skitmaker, Adebowale Adedeyo, widely known as Mr Macaroni, joined fellow citizens to mark the occasion. The gathering aimed to remember the events of October 20, 2020, when the peaceful protests against police brutality took a tragic turn.
The peaceful assembly took place amidst a significant police presence, with Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, and other top police officers present at the scene. Authorities had issued warnings against any form of assembly at the tollgate.
The #EndSARS protests initially emerged as a nationwide outcry against police brutality, specifically targeting the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The movement led to the dissolution of SARS by the Nigerian government. However, the peaceful demonstrations were marred by violence, as some individuals exploited the situation, resulting in attacks on law enforcement officers and public facilities.
The protest came to a tragic halt on October 20, 2020, when Nigerian Army officers fired at the demonstrators, leading to casualties and injuries among the predominantly youthful protesters. The commemorative gathering serves as a reminder of the need for justice, accountability, and reforms within the Nigerian law enforcement system.**
