During this coronavirus pandemic, people have labeled the police unit as an enemy to the nation. This is because there has been an increased number of cases of police brutality. Almost every day, one might find a case of police brutality circulating over social media. Countries such as Kenya and SA have reported cases of police brutality in that the police are using excessive force in implementing COVID-19 laws.
Recently, a man known as George Floyd in the United States died in the hands of white police officers. These cases have caught the attention of the rights group Amnesty and there is a dire need for a change of this situation.
Police Brutality in Nigeria
Nigeria is going through a tough time as protesters are demonstrating against police brutality. There have been several claims over a police unit called the Special Anti-Robbery Squad. Citizens say that the SARS has been in cases of kidnappings, harassment, and extorting citizens. Several volunteers have come up to financially, emotionally, and spiritually support the protesters as they demand a change.
There has been a series of reactions from international countries, African states, and prominent people over the unrest in Nigeria.
How did President Buhari React to Nigeria’s Unrest?
During this moment, the citizens have long awaited for their president to comment on the ongoing situation in the country. The Nigerian head of state spoke about the unrest in the state on Thursday night in a national television address. However, in Buhari’s speech, he never talked about the shootings of peaceful demonstrators that happened on Tuesday.
Buhari said:
“I am in pain that there is a loss of innocent lives. These tragedies are unnecessary. Sadly there is no way whatsoever to link these bad acts to legitimate expression of grievance of the youth of our state.”
A Deadly Tuesday in Nigeria
Some military men were shooting at peaceful demonstrators and a video of this incident circulated on social media. The protesters were singing the national anthem as they were protesting. More than 10 people lost their lives.
How did Citizens React to the President’s Speech?
Some Nigerians reacted to President Buhari’s speech describing it as depressing. Others said that the speech lacked empathy.
What Buhari Told International Parties
The head of state requested the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States to make enough findings before talking on Nigeria’s issues. His reference can be in connection to reactions from people around the globe including Hillary Clinton and Antonio Guterres. Guterres is the United Nations, Secretary-General.
From his address, the head of state read:
“To our neighbors and members of the international community, many of whom have expressed concern about the ongoing development in Nigeria, we thank you. We also urge you all to seek to know all the facts available before rushing to judgment and making hasty pronouncements.”
What are the Demands of the Nigerian Youth
Some of the demands of the youth are the release of all apprehended demonstrators and justice for dead victims of police brutality. They also want compensation for the families of the victims. They also demand a body that would oversee the scrutiny and prosecution of all cases of police wrongdoings.
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