#EndSARS Protesters return to Abuja streets

More than a week after protesters demanding an end to decades of police brutality in Nigeria retreated from the streets, dozens of #EndSARS campaigners resumed demonstrations Sunday afternoon in the Federal Capital Territory.

Peoples Gazette gathered that the campaigners, who converged on the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, made ‘EndSARS’ paintings on the road while chanting solidarity songs.

We are at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport to remind Nigeria and the world that we are not tired yet. #EndSARS is here to stay until the FG listens.

NO GOING BACK! #EndPoliceBrutality #LekkiMassacre pic.twitter.com/IrTw8QGKVm

— ADÉBÁYỌ̀ RAPHAEL (@Adebayo_Ralph) November 1, 2020

One of the protesters, Oluwatosin Adeniji, said the protest which was largely peaceful, however, witnessed pockets of harassment from military personnel.

“Although we were less than 50, we went there peacefully with our graffiti materials. While we were chanting ‘end SARS, end police brutality’, we were approached by a military personnel who hastily removed the name badge on his uniform”, Ms. Adeniji said.

“The soldier, accompanied by other officers demanded to speak with the leader of the protest, but we told him we had none. One of the officers who noticed I was live streaming, forcefully grabbed my phone from behind.”

After protracted arguments, Ms. Adeniji’s phone was released and the protesters were allowed to carry on with the demonstration.

The campaigners, joined by rights activist Omoyele Sowore continued the protest at the Force Headquarters unrestrained.

We continue now at Police Headquarters. This is a reminder that we have not forgotten & it can’t be audio ban again. All those killed at Lekki will never die in vain. #EndSARS pic.twitter.com/tg4tXszA3A

— Comrade Deji Adeyanju (@adeyanjudeji) November 1, 2020

Ms. Adeniji and other protesters are demanding speedy implementation of their ‘5 for 5’ demands seeking justice for all deceased victims of police brutality and compensation for their families, amongst others.
The resurgence of the protest has heightened fears of renewed thug violence in the capital city.

The street demonstration was initially relaxed after suspected pro-government assailants ran amok in the Apo and Dutse suburbs, leaving scores dead and many shops, houses and vehicles razed.