CSOs Criticize Security Forces for Brutalizing Peaceful Protesters
By Gabriel Ewepu
As the nationwide protests entered their fourth day of a planned ten-day duration, demonstrators have warned the Federal Government of their intent to persist if their demands are not met. They remain undeterred by the aggressive actions of security forces, insisting that their cause is just.
On Thursday, protesters took to the streets of Abuja and other cities, including Eagle Square, Federal Secretariat, National Stadium, and various suburbs in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as in other parts of the country. With placards reading “We dey hungry, end bad governance,” they launched the mass demonstration.
The protests were met with severe responses from security forces, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant property damage in states such as Borno, Kano, Kaduna, and Kebbi.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and activists have expressed deep concern over the violent treatment of protesters. In discussions with Sunday Vanguard, many criticized the security forces for their unprofessional conduct.
Activist Deji Adeyanju condemned Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, alleging that the police were instructed to use excessive force against the demonstrators. Adeyanju expressed disappointment over the reports of deaths an
d brutality.
