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#EndSARS: Protesters, Crowdfunding and National Security

By Yushau A. Shuaib

The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari is struggling to contain the protests of the EndSARS movement that has gripped the country like a wildfire, in a similar way that the previous administration of President Goodluck faced the challenge of tackling the Occupy Nigeria campaign in 2012.

Most campaigns through protest movements in Nigeria have been geared towards entrenching the rule of law, good governance, transparency and accountability, equity and justice. They have generally been mobilisations towards a freer and more livable society.

While in the past more than one week, the #EndSARS protests have been calling for an end to police brutality and oppression through the banning of the Federal-Special Anti-Robbery Squad (F-SARS) of the Nigeria Police Force, the Occupy Nigeria socio-political protest movement of 2012, was in response to fuel subsidy removal, alongside all the corruption endemic to the country’s petroleum industry, by the Federal Government of the day.

Similarly, in 2014, #BringBackOurGirls movement was launched as a pressure group for the release of the kidnapped Chibok School Girls, which subsequently drew a massive global attention. Some of the recognised and respected faces of those earlier movements, who have remained consistent in their advocacies for social causes are Aisha Yesufu, a human rights activist and Omoyele Sowore, a citizen journalist among others.

In other climes, mass protests are characterised by civil disobedience, social resistance, strike actions, demonstrations, and more recently online activism, especially in this age of the social media. For instance, the Arab Spring movement in 2010 was triggered by a Tunisian street vendor who set himself ablaze in protest against the confiscation of his wares, and the harassment and humiliation inflicted on him by government officials.

That act of the self-immolation of the street vendor, known as Mohammed Bouazizi, ignited the series of protests that became catalyst for the widespread revolution that swept across the Arab world. Through a succession of anti-government protests, uprisings, and in some extreme cases, armed rebellion, yet driven by different force fields, the Arab Spring movement consumed the regimes of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali of Tunisia, Muammar Gaddafi of Libya, Hosni Mubarak of Egypt, and Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen, while other regimes, such as that in Syria, were shaken to their foundation.

Just lately, the African continent witnessed the removal from office of President Omar al-Bashir of Sudan and Ibrahim Boubacar Keita of Mali after global outrage prompted by protest movements.

The funding of most protest movements is always shrouded in secrecy, just as the logistics arrangements for coup-de tats were in the past. In any case, intelligence services manage to detect, to some extent, where some of the funding for these movements are coming from, if these are channeled through the financial system.

The widespread use of social media platforms, with their relative anonymity, facilitates the effective coordination of large-scale and well-organised fund-raising schemes from multiple online donors, which are raising huge amounts of cash for logistics.

Crowdfunding is the practice of raising money for a project or venture from a large number of people via the Internet. Online fundraising, which has become part of the digital culture, is a form of alternative financing, driven through crowdsourcing, these days. It could be easier to identify the faces of campaigns, such as lawyers, journalists, social media influencers and human rights activists, however it is extremely difficult to identify the major financiers and donors who want to remain anonymous.

While crowdfunding accounts are legitimate and channelled for good causes, some of these are either created for other less than desirable purposes, which could be hijacked for political interests. Meanwhile, the EndSARS protest movement has raised over N37 million through crowdfunding, according to one of the leading groups in the protest, the Feminist Coalition. The figure shows an addition of N31 million in just four days, indicating a leap of about 487.8 per cent from the previous figure on October 10, which stood at N6,354,561.27.

While Flutterwave is one of the major crowdfunding platforms deployed in mobilising financial resources for the campaign, its Chairman and former Deputy Governor of CBN, Mr. Tunde Lemo is reported to have raised an alarm that “bad guys were moving money through them.” Hence, he said that he had directed the suspension of the fintech firm’s payment platform to prevent the illicit flow of funds through their channel to questionable causes.

So far, the Federal Government, and by implication the Nigeria Police, has given in to the demand of the protesters by disbanding the Federal-SARS or F-SARS and ordered all operatives of the now defunct unit to undergo psychological and medical examinations.

The police spokesperson, DCP Frank Mba, who has consistently engaged social media influencers and critical stakeholders on the development, announced the setting up of the Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), which will replace the disbanded F-SARS.

Frank added that former operatives of the defunct F-SARS would not be recruited into SWAT, as the new outfit will strictly be intelligence-driven and not embark on routine patrols.

Even with this development, many protesters have expressed skepticism at what they consider as the duplicity of the government in seeking to quell their campaign, which they have continued in a way now targeted at the newer hashtag, #EndSWAT and #EndInsecurityNow, in replacement of the earlier #EndSARS.

One of the founders of EndSARS agitation, Segun Awosanya, popularly known as Segalink, has distanced himself from any further protest with regard to ending F-SARS, after alleging that politicians and commercial criminals have hijacked the protest for their selfish ends.

In a series of recent tweets, Segalink has warned that the youths of the country would be endangering their lives if they insist on continuing with the protests after the government has agreed to all their demands.

It may therefore not be a coincidence that the strongly-worded but short statement by the Nigerian Military, warning to deal decisively with subversive elements and troublemakers, has also been issued.

The Army spokesperson, Colonel Sagir Musa, who issued the statement, added that the Nigerian Army “remains highly committed to defend(ing) the country and her democracy at all cost.”

Similarly, Major General John Enenche, the Coordinator Defence Media Operations also issued another strong warning on behalf all the security services. He said: “The Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies have observed with dismay some violence-related protests across the country; particularly the increasing number of attacks on peaceful protesters by thugs and miscreants.

This unfolding event against peace-loving Nigerians will not be condoned. Hence, thugs and miscreants are hereby warned to desist from engaging in violent activities against peaceful Nigerians henceforth, or face appropriate measures.”

Whatever may be the case, it is appropriate to reiterate here and now that citizens have the legitimate right to express their political, social and economic concerns in their country through demonstrations or protests. To this extent, the security agencies should know that violent crackdowns against protesters would always lead to untoward consequences, which would not augur well for the image of the federal government.

In crisis management, dialogue, constructive engagements, negotiations, and compromises are acceptable and sustainable approaches to peacebuilding. Let’s stay on this lane, please.

▪︎ Shuaib, Author “An Encounter with the Spymaster” and “Crisis Communication Strategies”
www.YAShuaib.com

#EndPoliceBrutality: How To Sue the Nigeria Police Force and Police Officers.

Daily Law Tips (Tip 675 ) by Onyekachi Umah, Esq., LL.M, ACIArb(UK)

ntroduction: 

Nigeria Police Force is a creation of the Constitution of Nigeria that can sue and be sued. Any police officer can be sued in Nigeria, from the Inspector General of Police to the most junior police officers (recruit constables). There is no immunity for any police officer in Nigeria, but even with the huge reported cases of police brutality there is little or no prosecution of police officers in courts across Nigeria. 

Silence, transfer of reckless  officers, disbandment of brutal units and forgiveness of police brutality will only cause more brutality. Ensuring that reckless police officers are penalised according to law will discourage police brutality. This work focuses on how to sue a police officer and the entire Nigerian Police Force for any violence, torture or violation of human right of any person in Nigeria.  

Who Is The Nigeria Police Force?:  

The Nigeria Police Force is a person (nonliving but legally constructed) created by the the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999. It is created for internal security, protection of lives, property and other human rights. It is headed by the Inspector General of Police and to carry out the functions and duties that are provided in the Police Act of 2020 (formerly, the Police Act of 1943).  

Powers Of The Nigeria Police Force: 

The Police Act of 2020 seem to have gather together all the powers/functions of the Police Force in one place. So the powers are not new but ambled together in a new federal law; the Police Act 2020. It has listed the primary functions of the Nigeria Police Force, to include: 

(a) the prevention and detection of crime, protection of rights and freedom of persons in Nigeria as provided in the Constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and any other law. 

(b) maintain public safety, law and order; 

(c) protect the lives and property of all persons in Nigeria; 

(d) enforce all Laws and regulations without prejudice to the enabling Acts of other security agencies: 

(e) discharge such duties within and outside Nigeria as may be required of it under law; 

(f) Collaborate with other agencies to take any necessary action and provide the required assistance or support to persons in distress, including victims of road accidents, fire disasters, earthquakes and flood

(g) facilitate the free passage and movement in highways, roads and streets open to the public; and

(h) adopt community partnership in the discharge of it’s responsibilities under this Bill or under any law; and

(i) to vet and approve the registration of private Detective schools and private Investigative outfits

Duties of the Nigeria Police Force:

By the new Police Act of 2020, there is a police duty that has been greatly emphasised and a section is specifically devoted to it, with the description; “Duty of Police Force to enforce certain constitutional provisions”. This duty is really not new, it has been there and reiterated countless times by the courts, although the Nigeria Police Force rarely complies with it. 

Now, the new Police Act of 2020, provides that the Police Force is responsible for promoting and protecting fundamental human rights of persons in police custody as protected in the constitution of Nigeria, the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights and other international laws on human rights. It also requires the Police Force to work closely with government agencies and private organisations on increasing access to justice and promoting legal services and protection of rights of detainees and defendants. This seems like a step in the right direction, if there is a means to train the ordinary police man on the streets and constantly monitor conducts of police officers. 

Difference Between Police Torture and Lawful Punishment:

Many persons in Nigeria, believe that ordering/forcing people to perform frog jump is a lawful power of the Police Officers. Many also believe that the police officers have powers to assign punishments to suspects and to also demand (extort) fines (bribes) in place of arrest and prosecution. 

The laws of Nigeria prescribe lawful punishments for offenders and only a court of law can assign a lawful punishment to an offender after hearing the offender and his accuser. The lawful punishments include; death, fines, imprisonment, probation, canning, labour and community service. Torture is not a lawful punishment and lawful punishment does not include torture, in any part of Nigeria. 

Torture is illegal and can never be ordered by any court of law. It is a violation of fundamental human right. Torture is the intentional infliction/causing of mental or physical pain/suffering on a person in order to obtain information/confession, or to punish, intimidate and force him or a third party. 

Torture includes; beatings, food deprivation, rubbing of pepper/chemicals, assuming of stressful bodily positions, rape, exposure to cold/sunlight, use of drugs, blindfolding, threat, prolonged interrogation, unscheduled transfer of persons, secret detention, denial of sleep, shaming, stripping naked and parading in public places. 

Punishment For Police Torture: 

Earlier I wanted to list out the common torture being used by Police officers, but I found out I was merely reproducing the above list of torture. Hence, there is no form of torture that is uncommon to officers of Nigeria Police Force. Police torture is a crime, irrespective of the alleged offence of the victim of torture. There is no justification for torture, not even war, national security or high-profile case. Every police torture is a violation of fundamental human right. 

Where there is torture in any security agency, the immediate commanding officer officer in-charge of the unit/department that committed such offence of torture will be held liable as an accessory to the crime, for any act or omission or negligence on his part that may have led to the commission of torture by his subordinates/colleagues. Any person that witnesses or is present when torture is being conducted is as liable as the person that conducted torture. Such witness is deemed as having participated in the torture. This applies to any person; military, para-military or civilian! 

Suing the Nigeria Police Force:

It is the Nigeria Police Force that organises some Nigerians, train them and declare them Police Officers. It is the Nigeria Police Force that is responsible for the welfare, operations, credit and discredits of the police officers in Nigeria. Every Police Officer is a representative of the Nigeria Police Force. You cannot separate Police Officers from the Nigeria Police Force, they are like corn and pop-corn. So, the unlawful actions of a police officer is arguably the unlawful actions of the Nigeria Police Force. 

Nigeria Police Force is vicariously liable for the actions of police officers. A master is responsible for the actions and inactions of his servant. If there are good training, welfare and monitoring schemes in the Nigeria Police Force, police officers will be better. A master that employs and engages a servant with a defective tool and skill, is responsible for the harm brought on other persons by his servant. Nigeria Police Force owes a duty to all persons in Nigeria, to ensure that only the best of persons, with the best of training and welfare are offered uniforms and ammunitions. 

In an era where most police officers fail and refuse to wear their uniforms (to avoid showing their names and unique police force number) it is hard to pinpoint a defaulting police office. Hence, it is rather easy to hold the Nigeria Police Force liable for the conduct of its officers. With endless nationwide transfer of police officers, lack of records and evasion of court processes/documents by police officers, makes holding the Nigeria Police Force liable better. 

For quick response, enforcement of judgment, sack of reckless police officers and payment of compensation, it is advisable to sue the Nigeria Police Force for the actions of its officers. By the way, the Nigeria Police Force has powers to pay debts (including judgement debts) owed by a police officer from the salaries of the police officer. These are reasons why a victim of torture or any violation of human rights should not hesitate to sue the Nigeria Police Force. 

Suing the Inspector General of Police and Other Officers:

The Nigeria Police Force is headed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The IGP is responsible for the actions, inactions, credits and discredits of the Nigeria Police Force and the officers of the Nigeria Police Force. IGP has the Full command and operate control of all police departments, units and formations. The success and failure of the Nigeria Police Force rests on the IGP, after all he is the head and it is for a reason. Consequently, the IGP is responsible for all the road blocks, conducts of all police officers and the treatment of suspects and detainees by all police officers. 

It is not out of place to sue the Inspector General of Police for the conduct of any police officer, police team or unit. By the way, where there is a torture, the head of the Unit where the torture happened is to be held responsible. In the larger scale, the IGP is the head of all units, squads, teams and formations in the Nigeria Police Force and as such the IGP is responsible for any torture in or by any police groups. 

By the way, the IGP is responsible for the recruitment of recruit constables into the Nigeria Police Force and further periodic re-training of police officers, so any defect in recruitment and training is a defect caused by the IGP. The IGP also has a statutory duty under the Police Act of 2020, to ensure the access to legal assistance of all suspects, detainees and any person in police custody. So, it is the direct responsibility of the IGP to ensure police officers respect human rights, avoid torture, respect lawyers and allow suspects/detainees to access legal services. 

While many police officers may abandon case files where the IGP is sued, Nigeria Police Force will rarely abandon the case. Obtaining a judgment against the IGP is one sure and easy way to ensure that judgement will b enforced. It is a good way to attract the attention of the Nigeria Police Force from their Louis Edet House in Abuja. Aside, the IGP, the other officers; Deputy Inspector General, Assistant Inspector General, Commissioner of Police to the most junior officer in police can be sued. They can be sued for their direct conducts and for the conducts of the police officers under their supervision. None is above the law.

Where To Sue the Nigeria Police Force and its Officers:

There are multiple options to a person that wants to sue the Nigeria Police Force or any police officer. One major thing to consider is the offence of the Nigeria Police Force or its officer. The offence may determine the court to go to. Also, the offence and the court, will determine the kind (nature) of remedy/compensation a victim may get.  Among the common cases against the Nigeria Police Force and its officer will be:  violence/torture, extortion, bribery and violation of human right of any person in Nigeria. 

Where any fundamental human right is violated, the right court to go to is a State High Court or the Federal High Court. No other court can attend to a case for enforcement of fundamental human rights. Click this link to find the full list of fundamental human rights in Nigeria; https://learnnigerianlaws.com/endsarsnow-compensation-for-police-brutality/. Where there is a violation of fundamental human right, the court can award payment of huge monetary compensation against the violator. Read my earlier work on remedies/compensations for violation of human rights via this link; https://learnnigerianlaws.com/endsarsnow-compensation-for-police-brutality/.

Where there is violence/torture, the right court to approach is the Magistrate Court or State High Court. It is a criminal matter and with the new Administration of Criminal Justice Act and its equivalents across states, the could be imprisonment, death, probation or fine for an offender and also adequate compensation for a victim. Gone are the days that prosecuting an offender will not offer monetary compensation for a victim. A victim of Police brutality can enjoy remedies under the Anti-Torture Act of 2017, the Violence Against Persons Act of 2015 and its equivalents across states. 

By the Anti-Torture Act 2017, any form of torture is an offence and a court can punish an offender with imprisonment for not more than 25 years, without an option of fine. Where torture leads to death, the violator will be tried for murder. The punishment for murder is death. Also, with internal disciplinary measures, the concerned police officer may lose his/her job, too. There is obviously no gain in torture and violation of any human right.

Under the Violence Against Persons Act of 2015 and its equivalents across states, the punishment for physical injury is maximum of 5 years or fine of N100,000.00 or both. The punishments for attempting such offence or assisting and aiding such offence is a maximum of 3 years imprisonment and or fine of #200,000.00 or both. And the victim of physical injury is entitled to compensation. 

Who Can Sue the Nigerian Police Force and Its Officers:

The Nigeria Police Force and its officers can be sued by any person, association, group, club, family, community, company or centre for themselves or for another person. Where the fundamental human rights of a person is violated, the victim, his supporters, family, friends or any person, can sue the violator (in this case the Nigeria Police Force and its officers). 

Alternatives To Court: 

Where there is police brutality, there can be remedies without going to court. There are available options outside courts, that the victims of police brutality may embrace. A violation of fundamental human rights can be reported to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) at the Abuja office (No 19 Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria) or any of their offices across states in Nigeria. 

NHRC can also be easily contacted via 08006472428 (Toll Free), 092903746, 092908829, 09032192577, 07041678566, 07053529460, 09088864332, https://www.nhrc.gov.ng, [email protected]. The full list of all the state offices of NHRC can be seen and contacted via this link; https://www.nigeriarights.gov.ng/map.html . The NHRC is as powerful as the courts and can make orders like a Court. In 2018, the NHRC Ordered the Federal Government of Nigeria to Pay N135 Million to Relatives of Victims of extra judicial killing (Apo Killings); https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2018/04/26/fg-pays-n135m-compensation-to-victims-of-apo-8-killings-by-dss/  

Also, abuse by the Nigeria Police Force and police officers can be reported to the Public Complaints Commission (PCC). The is established as an Ombudsman, designed to redress complaints lodged by aggrieved citizens or residents in Nigeria against administrative injustice and abuse of law. It is located at 25 Aguyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria and in states across Nigeria. It can be reached via +234 700 342 5722, +234 80705021082,  [email protected] , [email protected] and https://pcc.gov.ng/contact-us/ . The full list of all the state offices of PCC can be seen and contacted  vis this link; https://pcc.gov.ng/state-offices/ .

Recommendation And Conclusion: 

Above all things, the Nigeria Police Force is established to protect lives, property and all other human rights of persons in Nigeria. The Nigeria Police Force is not permitted to punish any person in Nigeria. The police is rather empowered to arrest, detain and bring to court any person suspected of committing an offence. It is only a court of law that can punish an offender. Also, police and law enforcement agencies are not allowed to collect fines for any offence. Any money demanded by a police officer is a bribe and the request (no matter how polite) is an extortion. Extortion is a crime and you have a duty to report the police officer and his team/office. 

The silence of victims of torture and their families seem to be emboldening police torture and unprofessionalism. One should never be shy or too religious to report and sue any police officer involved in any form of torture or misconduct. Do this to discourage the surge in police brutality and national decay. The Nigeria Police Force must ensure that its budget (tax payers fund) is not used to pay damages on behalf of police officers found liable by courts for their misconducts, rather the concerned violators/police officers must be made to pay for any damages/liabilities from their salaries and retirement benefits. 

Contact your lawyer and sue any police officer or law enforcement agent that has ever tortured you or any other person. There is no expiration date for the investigation and prosecution of any police officer or person involved in torture or any form of illegal punishment. Nigeria Police Force cannot punish.  

Kindly note that the Violence Against Persons Act of 2015 (VAPP Act) is operational in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Similar laws are now operational in Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Osun, Ekiti, Edo, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Benue, Cross River, Kaduna, FCT, and Plateau states. Soon, more States will enact similar laws as we encourage states to do so and condemn violence. The punishments stated in the VAPP Act should be made to be minimum punishments instead of maximum punishments to avoid the release of offenders with mere slaps on wrists. 

My authorities, are:

1. Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 33 to 46, 214, 215 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999.

2. Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 18, 20 of the Police Act, 2020

3. Sections 2, 8 and 14 of the Anti-Torture Act, 2017.

4. The judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria (on meaning and nature of fundamental human rights) in the case of RANSOME-KUTI & ORS v. AG FEDERATION & ORS (1985) LPELR-2940(SC)

5. The judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria (on meaning and nature of fundamental human rights) in the case of AGBAI & ORS v. OKOGBUE (1991) LPELR-225(SC)

6. “Nigeria: Special police squad ‘get rich’ torturing detainees and demanding bribes in exchange for freedom” (Amnesty International, 21 September 2016) <https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2016/09/nigeria-special-police-squad-get-rich-torturing-detainees/> accessed 5 October 2020. 

7. “Special Anti-Robbery Squad” (Wikimedia Foundation, 5 October 2020) <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special_Anti-Robbery_Squad> accessed 5 October 2020.

8. “End SARS” <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/End_SARS> (Wikimedia Foundation, 5 October 2020) accessed 5 October 2020

9. “Demand justice for Police Brutality in Nigeria” (Amnesty International) <https://www.amnesty.org/en/get-involved/take-action/nigeria-end-impunity-for-police-brutality-end-sars/> accessed 5 October 2020

10. “Nigerians want police’s SARS force scrapped”, Aisha Salaudeen (Aljazeera, 17 December 2017) <https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/12/15/nigerians-want-polices-sars-force-scrapped/?gb=true> accessed 5 October 2020

11. “Any Security Agency’s Manual/Protocol That Allows Torture Even For National Security Cases Is Unlawful And Its Officers Are Liable”, Onyekachi Umah (Daily Law Tip [Tip 412] <https://learnnigerianlaws.com/any-security-agency-s-manual-protocol-that-allows-torture-even-for-national-security-cases-is-unlawful-and-its-officers-are-liable-daily-law-tips-tip-412-by-onyekachi-umah-esq-llm-aciarb-uk/> accessed 5 October 2020. 

12. “What Is The Punishment For Any Person Including Police Officers That Tortures Another Person”, Onyekachi Umah (Daily Law Tip [251]) <https://learnnigerianlaws.com/daily-law-tips-by-onyekachi-umah-esq-tip-251-what-is-the-punishment-for-any-person-including-police-officers-that-tortures-another-person/> accessed 5 October 2020.

13. “Is Obeying “Orders From Above” A Defence For Torture In Nigeria”, Onyekachi Umah (Daily Law Tips [Tip 409]) <https://learnnigerianlaws.com/is-obeying-orders-from-above-a-defence-for-torture-in-nigeria-daily-law-tips-tip-409-by-onyekachi-umah-esq-llm-aciarb-uk/> accessed 5 October 2020. 

14. Direct access to previous works on Torture in Nigeria <https://learnnigerianlaws.com/?s=torture+>  

15. Direct access to previous works on Nigeria Police Force <https://learnnigerianlaws.com/?s=police+>

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#EndSARSProtest: No Judicial Panel Of Inquiry On Police Brutality Will Be Constituted In Rivers — Gov. Wike

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has said he is not a party to the directive by the National Executive Council, NEC for Governors to set-up a Judicial Panel of Inquiry to investigate activities of the Special Anti Robbery Squad, SARS, in their various states.

NEC, after its meeting Thursday, had directed the immediate establishment of state-based Judicial Panels of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality or related extra judicial killings with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squads (SARS) and other police units.

The Judicial Panels to be set up in all the states will include representatives of youths, students, civil society organizations and would be chaired by a respected retired State High Court Judge.

But Governor Wike is not having it.

Wike, while speaking on an interview on a live television programme monitored from Port Harcourt, wondered who will fund the panel of inquiry.

The Governor, who said the Federal Government is trivialising the demands by #EndSARS protesters by directing state governors to take charge of tactical commands of the police, stressed that he would not fund a judicial panel of inquiry of s police that is being controlled by the Federal government.

He added that state governors cannot take charge of tactical commands because they cannot employ or discipline anyone who errs.

According to him, “Rivers State, we set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry that indicted SARS officers. Instead of the Police authorities punishing the indicted officers, they shielded them and even promoted one to the rank of an Assistant Inspector General.

“Now, the Federal Government wants us to set up another Commission of Inquiry when the report of the last one we set up was not implemented.

“We are in a Federal System. Issues cannot be addressed by the Federal Government giving directives to State Governors.

“There is need for all stakeholders to look at the various laws establishing the Police to determine the roles of Councils, States and the Federal Government.”

For the sake of democracy, Nigeria’s #EndSars campaign against police brutality must prevail

People in the world’s largest Black nation have taken to the streets to demand one thing of their police: Stop killing us.

Over the last 10 days, Nigerians have been protesting against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, a unit of the Nigerian federal police force, after a video emerged of officers allegedly killing a man. Soon the hashtag #EndSars, as the unit is known, began trending internationally. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, a former military dictator, announced that SARS will be disbanded, but that promise has not been enough to quell the anger. Nigerians continue to protest.

Nigeria’s movement comes as protests demanding the protection of Black lives continue in the United States. At their core, the protests carry the same message: A country that allows state security agents to kill and abuse people with impunity is not a mature democracy. And, as in the United States, this is not the first time Nigerians have risen up against police brutality.

Amnesty International documented at least 82 cases of torture, extrajudicial killings, extortion and rape by SARS between January 2017 and May 2020. According to their report, victims held in SARS custody have been subjected to “mock execution, beating, punching and kicking, burning with cigarettes, waterboarding, near-asphyxiation with plastic bags, forcing detainees to assume stressful bodily positions and sexual violence.” Arrests and cases are rarely investigated. Despite the fact that Nigeria criminalized torture in 2017, no SARS officer has been convicted.

In December 2017, after a video circulated of SARS officers fleeing the scene after killing a man, Nigerians took to social media to share their stories of abusive encounters with the police. Back then the federal government promised all manner of reforms and investigations. But protest organizers were clear about what they wanted: SARS needed to be abolished.

In 2016, the World Internal Security and Police Index rated Nigeria’s police forces as the worst in the world. According to recent polls, Nigerians place the majority of the blame on police and government for high rates of human rights violations. For the last 25 years, the government’s response to calls for reform has been a running joke on the continent. Instead of providing better training and disciplining units guilty of abuses, successive Nigerian governments have instead responded with useless committees and panels. In 2006, President Olusegun Obasanjo set up the Danmadami police reform committee. Then, in 2008, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s Presidential Committee on the Reform of the Nigerian Police was set up to investigate the implementation of previous recommendations. In 2012, after reports that the terrorist group Boko Haram had infiltrated the police force, President Goodluck Jonathan fired the inspector general of police. He then proceeded to, you guessed it, set up a yet another committee to reorganize the police force.AD

And as abuses and impunity persist, Nigeria’s democracy has been dying in the darkness of government committee panels.

The energy and spirit of the Nigerian people is on display. On the ground, it has been Nigerian women and youth who have been the driving force of the protests. Feeling the pressure, a governor this week in Rivers State unconstitutionally banned #EndSars protests, but protesters took to the streets anyway. Nigerians around the world are also rallying around the #EndSars movement. Nigerian superstars, including John Boyega, Davido, Burna Boy and Genevieve Nnaji, have been tweeting in support. Jackie Aina, a Nigerian American beauty influencer, has also been posting information and links to organizations on her social media channels. In Houston, home to one of the largest populations of Nigerians in the United States, the singer Adekunle Gold helped organize a rally to support Nigerians in their protest against police brutality.

Here in the United States, the Congressional Black Caucus has even posted messages of support and solidarity. The #BlackLivesMatter movement has reminded us that for all of our lecturing to other countries about security reform and human rights, the United States has a persistent problem of police brutality and impunity. Worse yet, we’ve exported our own policing methods to other countries. The United States has offered training to Nigerian police forces. In 2017, police officers from Prince William County in Virginia trained members of the Nigerian police in human rights. This is the same police department that recently used tear gas and rubber bullets against peaceful protesters. The United States has also sold equipment and weapons to the Nigerian army and security forces.

Now Nigerians around the world are saying “enough” to police brutality, reinforcing the importance of the fight against police abuse here in the United States. And vice versa: Black Americans could stand to learn more from the years-long fight against Nigeria’s corrupt police force.

Nigeria is one of the most vibrant and dynamic countries in Africa. Sadly, it has had the misfortune of being ruled by shambolic, corrupt governments. But now the country, which has long been divided along religious and ethnic lines, has come together against police brutality, showing the power and spirit of the Nigerian people when pushed to their limits. As they say in Nigeria, “Naija no dey carry last!”

The people of the world’s largest Black nation deserve to prevail over state-sponsored oppression.

washingtonpost

Google drums support for #EndSARS

By OMOLOLA AFOLABI

Google in Africa has supported the ongoing #EndSars protests nationwide.

In a tweet from its verified Twitter account, the global search engine said:

“We strongly oppose oppression, brutality, and intimidation. We believe a fair and impartial police force is a critical element of a stable society and abuse of power infringes on democratic and human rights.

“We urge a speedy resolution to the current situation #EndSars.”

Also, Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey has endorsed the protests, recommending an account for fundraising in bitcoins. (The Nation)

Striking aviation workers bar minister from entering FAAN HQ

By CHINELO OBOGO, Lagos

Three major aviation unions on Thursday prevented the Minister of Aviation, Captain Hadi Sirika, from gaining entry into Freedom Square, the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Lagos, following a one-day warning strike over unpaid salaries.

The Minister was to hold a town hall meeting with the unions and members of staff on Thursday at noon to resolve the pending issues but he was prevented from doing so after the gates leading to the airports authority headquarters were shut by the unions.

Canopies and chairs had been set up in preparation for the meeting, but outside the venue gates were shut with padlocks and blocked with vehicles while union members were carried placards and sang solidarity songs.

On Wednesday, October 14, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) and the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAP), issued a notice to embark on a one-day warning strike after the seven-day ultimatum issued to FAAN management to meet their demands were not met.

Their demands included immediate payment of outstanding allowances, leave allowances, remittance of contributory pensions, cooperative deductions, gratuity of retired staff and death benefits.

Others are immediate release of aviation intervention funds, immediate implementation of the national minimum wage and immediate remittance of N105.3 billion actuarial valuation as 2016 to PFA’s, immediate reparation of 2020 actuarial valuation.

The leaders of the unions said they had to shut down the venue of the meeting over plans by the Minister of to address the workers directly rather than negotiating with the union leaders.

As early as 9 am, the unions had already converged for the one day strike after which they planned to go back and negotiate with FAAN management.

NUATE President Ben Nnabue, who spoke to journalists, said:

‘This is a warning strike and the Minister cannot come and talk to our workers directly without us. This action is just for today after which we will renegotiate with the management.’

Meanwhile, an advance party comprising the Managing Director of FAAN, Captain Rabiu Yadudu and Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority ( NCAA), Captain Musa Nuhu and other directors were not allowed to address the Congress that was gathered at the Freedom Square.

Ocheme Aba who spoke to the media told the gathering that if the management of FAAN consented to the agreement reached, the warning strike would end today and a week will be allowed for management to meet the demands of the workers to avert a full blown indefinite strike.

In an effort to stall the unions’ action after the expiry of the ultimatum issued, a series of meetings were lined up in regions of the country all through next week to meet with staff however, the unions have warned it’s members to steer clear.

An internal memo dated October 8 and titled “Invitation for a Meeting with the Honourable Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika with ref: FAAN/HA/1A/400/19/Vol 4/39”, signed by the General Manager Administration, MD Musa, said the meeting with all staff is an interactive session to discuss the challenges meted on the agency by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The letter read in part:

‘It is an interactive session aimed at addressing the prevailing challenges facing FAAN in particular and the aviation industry in general, occasioned by the COVID-19 global pandemic.

‘All staff are therefore enjoined to avail themselves of this unique opportunity offered by the honourable minister to present issues bothering their welfare among other challenges, offer suggestions that will move the organisation forward.

‘The meetings were scheduled to hold in the SouthWest (Lagos) on Monday October 12, South South/ South East (Port Harcourt) on Tuesday October 13th; North Central (Abuja) on Thursday October 15th and North West/East in Kano on Friday October 16.’

But arising from the extraordinary emergency meeting of JAC held on October 9, the JAC-in-session resolved that all FAAN staff should boycott the invitation in all regions. It said it viewed the planned meeting as an attempt to justify the planned concession programme.

Apart from the planned boycott of these meetings in the region, the unions insisted that FAAN management meets its demands ranging from remittance of ₦105.3 billion actuarial valuation as at 2016, remittance of all pension deduction to the Pension Fund Administrators (PFA), immediate preparation of 2020 actuarial valuation.

Others include immediate remittance of all cooperative deductions, immediate payment of (i) child education grant (ii) leave allowance (iii) furniture grant (iv) gratuity (v) Covid-19 palliatives (vi) death benefits (vii) other claims.

At the time of filing this report, Sirika was at the VIP lounge of the local airport with his entourage after he was denied entry into the venue of the proposed meeting.

Due to this development, staff of other aviation agency, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency NAMA and the Nigerian Quarantine services couldn’t also gain entry to their offices. (Daily Sun)

Soldiers arrest 28 bandits, oil thieves, kill several terrorists, rescue 28 kidnap victims

By MOLLY KILETE, Abuja

The Defence Headquarters said military operations conducted across the country in the last one week has led to the killings of several terrorists, bandits, oil thieves and other criminals terrorizing the peace of the country.

The Coordinator, Defence Media Organisation, Major General John Enenche, who made the disclosure Thursday, said soldiers operating in conjunction with other security agencies in the North East zone of the country have sustained the tempo in their operational activities with aggressive ground and air operations, clearance operations, cordon and search operations, Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance missions as well as artillery and aerial bombardments on terrorists’ hideouts.

He said the the aggressive operations by the troops have stopped the terrorists from moving freely and denied them freedom of action in the zone.

Gen Eneche, at a media briefing, said 16 bandits, gunrunners, drug peddlers and other criminals were arrested within the last one week and 28, kidnapped victims rescued from their abductors.

He also said that several arms, weapons, illicit drugs and other dangerous whiplash used by the criminals were recovered during the period.

‘From the operational estimate of these successes recorded within the period, it is clear that there is downward trend in the activities of bandits in the zone. Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria working with other security agencies are committed in their endeavor to end banditry and other sundry crimes in the country,’ he stated.

Giving an update on military operations conducted in the last one week, Enenche said:

‘The Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies have continued their major operations across the country with attendant successes. The various operations have progressed satisfactorily in all the theatres. In this regard, I will be updating you on the operations in line with our weekly schedule. This briefing will cover from 8– 14 October 2020.’

NORTH-WEST ZONE

‘In the North-West zone, the Armed of Nigeria and other security agencies have continued to intensify the operations in their resolve to stamp out banditry and other sundry crimes in the zone. Notably, on 12 October 2020, troops of Operation ACCORD acting on credible intelligence arrested 9 suspected bandits/collaborators at Dan Ali village in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State. Suspects are currently in custody for necessary action. Similarly, in a covert operation based on credible intelligence, 4 suspected bandits including a suspected bandits leader named Mujitafa Shehu were arrested at Kankara Town and Tudu village of Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State.

‘In another development, troops of Operation SAHEL SANITY deployed at Forward Operation Base Magami while responding to a distress call rescued 23 kidnapped victims from fleeing bandits who abandoned the captives as the unrelenting troops were closing in on their hideout along Zauni-Jengebe road in Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Preliminary investigation revealed that the victims were kidnapped while on transit to Magami market from Gusau in a passenger bus. All the rescued victims have been reunited with their families.

‘Similarly, Land Component of Operation THUNDER STRIKE supported by the Air Component on 8 October 2020, conducted clearance and rescue operations at Audu Jongom, Jekadarebi, Dutse and Gona-Bature villages as well as adjoining forest in Kaduna State. During the operations, many bandits’ camps were destroyed. In the same vein, 3 kidnapped victims were rescued, 2 suspects arrested, one AK-47 rifle, 2 AK-47 rifle magazines, 73 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one locally fabricated pistol and 3 locally made rifles were recovered among others.

‘Additionally, several armed bandits were neutralized in air strikes executed by the Air Component of Operation HADARIN DAJI at a location West of Wagini in Katsina State. The air interdiction mission was conducted on 8 October 2020 after credible Human Intelligence reports and series of confirmatory surveillance missions had shown significant presence of the bandits, along with hundreds of rustled cattle, in the camp. The attack aircraft subsequently engaged the location in successive runs, destroying portions of the camp and neutralizing scores of the bandits. Currently, Nigerian Air Force helicopter gunship and alpha jet have continued to dominate the air space with aerial patrols providing close air support for ground troops while Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance missions have been intensified to deny bandits freedom of action.

‘From the operational estimate of these successes recorded within the period, it is clear that there is downward trend in the activities of bandits in the zone. Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria working with other security agencies are committed in their endeavor to end banditry and other sundry crimes in the country.’

NORTH-EAST ZONE

‘Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria operating in conjunction with other security agencies in the North East zone of the country have not relented in sustaining the tempo in their operational activities. Between 8 and 14 October 2020, troops conducted series of ground and air operations under Operation LAFIYA DOLE and other subsidiary operations. The operations include aggressive clearance operations, cordon and search operations, Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance missions as well as artillery and aerial bombardments on terrorists’ hideoutshttps://googleads.g.doubleclick.net/pagead/ads?client=ca-pub-8540702822458166&output=html&h=280&slotname=1825395178&adk=2494221803&adf=3673058151&pi=t.ma~as.1825395178&w=400&lmt=1602888138&psa=1&guci=2.2.0.0.2.2.0.0&format=400×280&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnewsexpressngr.com%2Fnews%2F108569&flash=0&wgl=1&tt_state=W3siaXNzdWVyT3JpZ2luIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9hZHNlcnZpY2UuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbSIsInN0YXRlIjowfV0.&dt=1602888137982&bpp=28&bdt=1410&idt=514&shv=r20201014&cbv=r20190131&ptt=9&saldr=aa&abxe=1&cookie=ID%3D18bd38838dd76e35%3AT%3D1602887982%3AS%3DALNI_MbceTlZv0d2s05c_D4djqJ62Dnr3A&prev_fmts=0x0&nras=1&correlator=7446811130642&frm=20&pv=1&ga_vid=2124079428.1596131593&ga_sid=1602888138&ga_hid=1088954846&ga_fc=0&iag=0&icsg=35736454310896&dssz=36&mdo=0&mso=0&u_tz=60&u_his=1&u_java=0&u_h=1280&u_w=800&u_ah=1280&u_aw=800&u_cd=24&u_nplug=0&u_nmime=0&adx=15&ady=3721&biw=800&bih=1160&scr_x=0&scr_y=0&eid=21066819%2C21066973&oid=3&pvsid=3971557531522153&pem=911&rx=0&eae=0&fc=1920&brdim=0%2C0%2C0%2C0%2C800%2C0%2C800%2C1160%2C800%2C1160&vis=1&rsz=%7C%7CpeEbr%7C&abl=CS&pfx=0&fu=8192&bc=31&ifi=1&uci=a!1&btvi=1&fsb=1&xpc=Qp5GtR16xI&p=https%3A//newsexpressngr.com&dtd=562

‘Categorically, own troops forestalled the terrorists’ moves and also denied them freedom of action in the zone, leading to domination of the zone causing some terrorists to flee from the Joint Operations Area. Consequently, there is reduction in the spate of their activities in the North East zone during the period. This is an evidence of own troops superior operational capabilities.

‘The successful feats achieved by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security operatives in the North East zone to a large extent is considered to be through the cooperation of the populace. Thus, the High Command of the Military thanks the general public for their support and cooperation and further solicit their cooperation towards providing credible and timely information on terrorists’ activities to facilitate proactive engagements in our operations. The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to remain resolute and committed to end the insurgency and terrorism in the North East zone of the country.’

NORTH-CENTRAL ZONE

‘In the North Central zone, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have continued to sustain the tempo through aggressive clearance patrols, ambushes and raids which have yielded remarkable successes. Within the period under review, troops of operations WHIRL STROKE and SAFE HAVEN conducted major raid operations to identified bandits camps. Notably, on 13 October 2020, following credible intelligence on the activities of the criminal elements linked to the late Gana, troops of Sector 2, Operation WHIRL STROKE raided a suspected armed militias’ hideout at Bem Akumaoir village of Katsina Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. Troops had contact with the armed bandits and overwhelmed them with superior firepower, neutralizing one militia while others fled into the surrounding bushes with fatal injuries. One locally made pistol loaded with one round of 7.62mm ammunition and one Mobile Police jersey pullover were recovered.

‘Earlier, on 9 October 2020, sequel to intelligence reports on the activities of 3 gunrunners at Mangoro general area in Niger State, troops mobilised to the area and arrested one of the suspects, Juli Umaru. It was revealed that the 3 suspected gunrunners cumulatively possessed about 60 AK-47 rifles. The suspect was taken into custody for preliminary investigation, while efforts are on-going to apprehend the other suspects and recover the weapons in their possession.

‘Relatedly, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN, in conjunction with personnel of NDLEA, raided a suspected drug peddlers’ hideout at Abun and Gimbi villages in Wase Local Government Areas of Plateau State. The operation resulted in the arrest of 2 suspected drug dealers with a large quantity of substances suspected to be Cannabis Sativa and other illicit drugs. Suspects and exhibits have been handed over to the NDLEA for further action.

‘Furthermore, on 11 October 2020, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN intercepted suspected armed cattle rustlers around Katran Forest in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State. The aggressive tactics of the troops resulted in the recovery of 50 rustled cows while the criminals fled with fatal gunshot injuries. The recovered cows were duly handed over to their legitimate owners.

‘As part of concerted Civil Military Cooperation activities, Headquarters of Operation WHIRL STROKE, on 9 October 2020, fostered several peace meetings amongst the various ethnic groups in Benue and Nasarawa States. Notably, peace and security meetings were held at Adaka in Makurdi Local Government Area, Anguwa and Jimba in Gwer West Local Government Area and Gbeji in Tsaav Local Government Area of Benue State. The meetings were attended by various stakeholders in the area.

‘Additionally, on same 9 October 2020, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE conducted a medical outreach at Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Camp at Anyin Community in Loko Town, Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. Several items including mosquito nets were distributed to the IDPs while also reassuring them of their safety. Troops also visited Umenger Community Primary School where items including exercise books, pencils, ball pens as well as refreshments were distributed to the students. The medical outreach was also extended to Awe and Keana Local Government Areas of Nasarawa State. Teaching aids including books and pens were equally donated to the pupils at Tunga Central School in Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, while items such as noodles, diapers, disinfectants, detergents and other toiletries were distributed to individuals at the Primary Healthcare Centre at Giza in Keana Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

‘Still on 9 October 2020, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE conducted a Security Awareness campaign at Loko Town in Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The campaign was aimed at educating the local community on the need to provide troops with information on movement of criminals in the general area.’

SOUTH-SOUTH ZONE

‘Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE have continued with the aggressive fight against economic sabotage in the zone with significant successes. Within the period under review, following actionable intelligence on the activities of oil thieves, Nigerian Navy Ship DELTA patrol team intercepted and immobilized 2 large wooden boats laden with polythene bags cumulatively containing about 20,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) at Jeddo in Delta State. The team also destroyed 4 drums and 75 polythene bags containing illegally refined AGO by the riverbank at Jeddo. Further exploitation of the general area led to the destruction of 600 drums and recovery of 2 pumping machines hidden in several wooden stores at Jeddo. Additionally, the operation led to the arrest of 2 suspected vandals around Shagbolor in Warri South Local Government Area. The suspects and recovered items were taken into custody for further action.

‘Also within the period under review, troops of 29 Battalion in conjunction with personnel of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Labarador Security workers discovered and immobilized 3 illegal refining sites and one wooden boat loaded with illegally refined AGO around Bekinkiri/Ke in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. Similarly, still on 8 October 2020, troops of Sector 2 Operation DELTA SAFE acting on credible intelligence arrested 4 suspected pipeline vandals at Opukushi Community in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. In the same vein, troops of 222 Battalion, on 9 October 2020 arrested 2 suspected pipeline vandals from Ughelli Community in connection with the theft of some parts of the Oil Mining License (OML) 34 oil wellheads, in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. The suspects were handed over to Sector 1 Operation DELTA SAFE for further action.

‘Later in the week, Operation CALM WATERS 2 and Operation SWIFT RESPONSE recorded remarkable successes. Specifically, on 12 October 2020, Forward Operating Base IBAKA gunboats while on routine patrol around Utan Iyata Creek intercepted and arrested a medium size wooden boat laden with 978 bags of 50 kg foreign parboiled rice with 2 suspects. Preliminary investigation revealed that the foreign parboiled rice was suspected to be smuggled from the Republic of Cameroun. Also, a truck laden with about 2,195 cartons of Cocoa Butter and a motorcycle were arrested. Suspects and items recovered from the arrest are currently in custody and will soon be handed over to the appropriate prosecuting authority.

‘Gleaning from the foregoing, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies remain committed, resolute and determined to curtail the activities of insurgents, armed bandits, economic saboteurs and other criminal elements in the country. The Military High Command commends the gallant troops for the successes achieved so far and their unwavering commitment and dexterity. Troops are further encouraged to remain resolute and decisive in curtailing the activities of the enemies of the country. The High Command, also reassures the general public of its commitment in securing the country. Members of the general public are enjoined to continue providing timely information on the activities of criminals in their various localities to the nearest military and other security agencies location for prompt action.’ (Daily Sun)

#EndSARS: Nigerians kick as FCT bans protest

By DAVID ROYAL

Nigerians have kicked against the ban placed on protests in Abuja by security committee of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) over COVID-19 safety fears.

Hundreds of Nigerians for the past seven days have been protesting nationwide over alleged police brutality on citizens.

It turned out to be violent in Abuja on Wednesday after a group of armed thugs attacked peaceful protesters at Berger roundabout thereby destroying vehicles and injuring some of the protesters.

The protesters despite the disbandment of SARS Unit by the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, have insisted that until they are fully assured of a reformation in the Nigerian Police Force, they will not stop protesting, expressing discontent over government’s failure to reform the system thereby subjecting the citizens to brutality.

In the security committee’s meeting, presided over by FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, they resolved that the ongoing protests endanger the lives of everyone in the capital city and therefore should be banned.

“All street demonstrations, protests, and processions will not be allowed anywhere within the FCT,” the statement read”

Not being pleased with the ban placed on protests, some Nigerians took to Twitter to condemn such action stating that if political rallies can be held in the country, protests can be held as well.

Below are some tweets gathered:

@henryshield “The banning of #EndSWAT street protests by the FCTA because of COVID-19 is the silliest joke of the century. You clowns went for campaigns and public rallies in Edo and Ondo!”

@andreachichi “Bunch of hypocrites. They cannot shut us up. They cannot intimidate us. They can not lock us up and throw the keys away. We are not our fathers. We are Nigerian youths and not slaves, we have our rights. They cannot trample on our rights”

@ikmohit “They used police they failed, tried military but failed, tried thugs still failed now they want to use COVID-19, please let me go and laugh small I will be back”

@Krysty_Ann “Ehyah!!! The Government cares so much about our health and safety. Confused faceConfused faceConfused face With the series of events Govt officials have been part of even during the height of Covid19, it’s this protest that’s breaking Covid One Nine rules.”

@Akewusolaf1 “Lol. The joke on them. US has the highest records but black lives matter protests went on. The rallies nko?, it only shows this govt is self-centred. #EndSWAT #EndSARS”

@turningmess “High profile weddings have been held without any adherence to Covid guidelines. Na todayThumbs down” (Vanguard)

Northern states not against SARS, says Lalong

By OLALEKAN ADETAYO, Abuja

Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, on Thursday said Northern states were not against the scrapped  Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police.

Lalong, who is the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, said the unit had been useful in the fight against insecurity in the Northern region.

The governor made his position known in an interview with State House correspondents after a meeting he had with the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

While noting that Buhari had already approved the scrapping of the police unit, Lalong said northern states do not believe in throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

He, however, admitted that the unit needed reforms. (The PUNCH)

Felabration 2020 kicks off: Femi, Made, Joeboy, Niniola, Seun mount stage tonight

By SUNNY OKIM

The post-humous celebration of Fela Anikulapo’s birthday has kicked off with activities lined up for the annual celebration.

Earlier today at 5pm, there was a webinar symposium tagged, “The Fela Debates #13 Symposium” with topic “Colomentality”.

Guest Speakers at the symposium moderated by Dr. Vincent Magombe were Ambassador Arikana Chihombori Quao, Kweku Mandela and Dele Farotimi.

First daughter of the late Afrobeat legend Yeni Kuti further informed News Express that the celebration will continue by 8pm today at the Africa Shrine where five top artistes will be performing.

The music stars, according to Yeni, are Femi Kuti, Made, Joeboy, Niniola and Seun Kuti.

She also informed that there are other scheduled live performances online and on Hip Tv, YouTube, Instagram and others.

It will be recalled that the fearless Afro beats king and leader of Egypt 80 Band died on August 2, 1997 at age of 58. He was born on October 15, 1938.

October 15 is celebrated every year with the tag Felabration.

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