Okonjo-Iweala backs #EndSars protesters: Let’s join hands for positive outcome

A former Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala wants more support for the #EndSARS protests in the country so as to achieve a positive outcome.

She also lauded Nigerian youths for their courage and resourcefulness in the protests.

“I applaud the resourcefulness and courage of Nigerian youth in the #EndSARS. Powerful to let your voices be heard peacefully,” she tweeted on her handle on Sunday morning. “Let’s join hands for a positive outcome through a One Nigeria approach.”

A New Unit

The #EndSARS protests calling for an end to police brutality; extrajudicial killings and scrapping of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) – a unit of the police force notorious for human rights abuse –  have continued for over 12 days.

Nigeria’s police chief, Mohammed Adamu, had on heels of the disbandment of SARS, announced a new tactical unit – Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) – to replace the scrapped arm of the force.

Irked by the move, more Nigerians trooped to the streets, calling for the rejection of the new unit.

Using the #EndSWAT hashtag on the social media platform,  Twitter, the protesters believe the new arm of the police would be no different from the disbanded SARS.

They argue that the introduction of SWAT is ill-timed and does not align with their demands for a reformation of the country’s policing system.

Protests Spread

Although the protest started in Lagos and Abuja and other major cities in the country, it has continued to spread to most towns across Africa’s most populous nation.

On Friday, the protesters held Jummat services and candlelight processions in Abuja and Lagos, honouring those who died from police brutality.

Some of the protesters had on Saturday, held prayer walks in several cities and towns, seeking divine intervention for Nigeria. (Channels TV)