#ENDSARS: Investigate killings of protestors

Amnesty International has been monitoring developments across Nigeria since the #EndSARS protests began on 8 October 2020. At least 56 people have reportedly died across the country since the protests began, with about 38 allegedly killed on 20 October alone. In many cases the security forces had used excessive force in an attempt to stop the protests.

In response to the nationwide protests, the Inspector General of Police on 11 October 2020, dissolved the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and called for the immediate redeployment of all SARS officers to other units. Despite the pronouncement and increasingly brutal repression of the demonstrations, thousands of Nigerians continue to protest. They are demanding the release of all arrested protesters, justice for victims of police brutality and adequate compensation for the victims and their families, as well as prosecution of those suspected to be responsible.

Over the past five years, the Federal Government has promised to reform SARS several times. Despite these pledges of reform and accountability for violations, Amnesty International’s report shows that SARS officers continue to commit human rights violations with impunity.