The Nigerian Police Force has firmly rebutted claims made by Senator Shehu Sani regarding the detention of EndSARS protesters. The allegations surfaced during a Democracy Day event on June 12, where Sani urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to release individuals purportedly held since the 2020 protests against police brutality.
In a statement titled “Democracy Day: Police Clarifies, Refutes Senator Sani’s Misleading Claims. No EndSARS Protester Still in Detention,” the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, addressed the issue. Adejobi categorically denied the existence of any EndSARS protesters in detention, asserting that all individuals arrested during the protests have been processed according to the law and released. He emphasized that the police force remains committed to upholding justice and human rights, urging the public to disregard Sani’s claims.
Official Statement and Rebuttal by the Nigerian Police
In his detailed statement, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi refuted Senator Sani’s remarks, calling them “misleading.” He reiterated that no individuals are unlawfully detained by the Nigerian police or any other security agency in connection with the EndSARS protests. “The Nigerian Police Force categorically denies the recent allegations made by Senator Shehu Sani,” Adejobi stated, emphasizing that the police have adhered strictly to legal protocols in handling all related arrests.
Further clarifying the situation, Adejobi mentioned that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos pardoned approximately 100 individuals detained during the protests, underlining the state’s commitment to reconciliation and justice. This move, he pointed out, is part of a broader effort to ensure that no one is unjustly punished for participating in the protests. The Nigerian police statement aimed to reassure the public of their dedication to justice and the rule of law.
Public Reactions and Historical Context
The EndSARS protests of 2020 marked a significant movement against police brutality in Nigeria, leading to widespread demonstrations and global attention. The government’s response, including arrests and subsequent pardons, has been a focal point in discussions about Nigerian police reform and human rights in the country. Senator Shehu Sani, a prominent human rights activist, has continued to advocate for transparency and accountability regarding these events.
Despite the Nigerian police’s firm denial, Sani’s claims have sparked discussions about the transparency of government actions post-EndSARS. Some activists argue that the government’s assurances need more verification, while others believe that Sani’s statements highlight ongoing concerns about police conduct. The police, on their part, maintain that lessons have been learned from the protests and that steps have been taken to move forward constructively.
, The Nigerian Police Force’s rebuttal of Senator Sani’s claims underscores a critical aspect of the ongoing dialogue about police reform and human rights in Nigeria. The official stance is clear: no EndSARS protesters remain in detention. However, the discourse around these issues is likely to persist, reflecting broader societal concerns about justice and governance.
Call for Verification and Responsible Public Discourse
The Nigerian police statement also called for caution in public discourse. “We urge the public to disregard this claim and remain assured of our commitment to upholding justice, the rule of law, and human rights,” the police emphasized. They encouraged individuals, particularly public figures, to verify information before making public statements to avoid harm and incitement.
This call for responsible communication reflects broader concerns about misinformation and its potential to inflame public sentiment. By addressing Senator Sani’s claims directly and providing a detailed account of their actions and policies, the Nigerian Police Force aims to reassure the public of their dedication to lawful conduct and the protection of human rights.
The Nigerian Police Force’s response to Senator Sani’s allegations underscores their commitment to transparency and accountability. By publicly refuting the claims and providing context for their actions during the EndSARS protests, they seek to maintain public trust and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria
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