20 Oct 2023 | 09:39 AM UTC
Nigeria: Protests likely nationwide, especially Lekki, Lagos State, despite police interdict, Oct. 20
Protests likely in Nigeria Oct. 20 despite police ban, especially in Lekki, Lagos State, on anniversary of "End SARS" movement.
Event
Demonstrations are likely nationwide on the anniversary of the deadly "End-SARS" protests, Oct. 20. Civil society groups have reportedly planned peaceful marches, including in Lekki, Lagos State, toward the Lekki Toll Plaza, which was the scene of violence in 2020. Authorities have warned that despite tolerating peaceful gatherings, protesters would not be allowed to converge toward the gate.
Despite the interdict, protests are likely in all major urban areas, including Lagos and Abuja. Police will certainly deploy to monitor any protest sites that materialize and may use force to disperse protesters. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible. Increased security measures, including movement restrictions, will likely prompt transport and business disruptions at protest sites.
Context
The #EndSARS social media campaign initially started in 2017 to demand the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Unit (SARS) police unit. The movement grew in October 2020 and mass protests were held across Nigeria, with demonstrations leading to several fatal clashes between protesters and security forces. Authorities implemented security restrictions, including curfews, in several areas such Lagos, Osun, and Ekiti states. On Oct. 20, 2020, Nigerian security forces opened fired at protesters in Lekki, Lagos State, killing an unspecified number of persons (casualty toll ranges from two to 12 deaths). Related unrest has sporadically continued despite the dismantlement of the police unit. Protesters had called for anniversary rallies in 2021 and 2022, causing minor disruptions and drawing a heavy security deployment.
Advice
Liaise with trusted contacts regarding protest sites and maintain contact with your diplomatic mission. Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Allow extra time for travel near demonstration sites. Heed the instructions of local security personnel and leave the area immediately if violence breaks out nearby.
