18 Oct 2024 | 03:19 PM UTC
Nigeria: Protests possible nationwide, especially in Lekki, Lagos State, Oct. 20
Protests possible across Nigeria, especially in Lekki, Lagos State, on Oct. 20 amid anniversary of 2020 "End SARS" protests.
Demonstrations are possible nationwide on Oct. 20 amid the anniversary of the 2020 "End-SARS" protests. Marches are especially possible in Lekki, Lagos State, toward the Lekki Toll Plaza, which was the scene of violence on Oct. 20, 2020. Authorities are unlikely to allow any protests to materialize, especially near the Lekki Toll Plaza. Other major urban areas, including Lagos and Abuja, could also witness spontaneous protests.
Police will almost certainly deploy near any potential gathering site. Increased security measures, including movement restrictions, will likely prompt transport and business disruptions near any protests that materialize. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible. Police may use force to disperse protesters.
Monitor local news sources and security alerts as protests could be announced on short notice. 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.
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 as Lagos, Osun, and Ekiti states. On Oct. 20, 2020, Nigerian security forces opened fire 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 police unit being disbanded. Protesters had called for anniversary rallies in 2021, 2022, and 2023, causing minor disruptions and drawing a heavy security deployment.
