On Thursday the Nigerian Police unlawfully arrested five peaceful protesters in Abuja during a protest seeking protection for beleaguered Nigerians particularly in the northern parts.
Upon arrest, these citizens were subjected to the worst form of brutality by policemen deployed to quell the protest.
Today, two Magistrates have refused to take their case but we got a chance to see the unchanging face of police brutality. These videos were taken in court today.
THE IMAGES ARE DISTURBING!
On Thursday the Nigerian Police unlawfully arrested five peaceful protesters in Abuja during a protest seeking protection for beleaguered Nigerians particularly in the northern parts.
Upon arrest, these citizens were subjected to the worst form of brutality by policemen deployed to quell the protest.
Today, two Magistrates have refused to take their case but we got a chance to see the unchanging face of police brutality. These videos were taken in court today.
THE IMAGES ARE DISTURBING!
2. With due respect, the position of the learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is grossly misconceived, suspiciously misleading and does not reflect the true position of the law. The Lagos EndSARS panel was constituted within the ambits of law and its investigative powers are neither overreaching nor beyond the scope of the 1999 Constitution.
3. First, Section 1 of the Tribunal of Inquiry Law, Cap T7, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, confers power on the Governor of Lagos State to constitute the judicial panel to investigate “any matter in respect of which in the opinion an inquiry would be for the public welfare”. Instructively, it is settled law that the Federal Government lacks the power and authority to constitute judicial panels or any tribunal whatsoever for state governments. With a clear understanding that the Federal Government lacks the constitutional vires to constitute tribunal for states, the National Economic Council, NEC, last year directed the immediate establishment of State-based Judicial Panels of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality or related extrajudicial killings with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squads (SARS) and other police units.
4. In the popular case of Fawehinmi v. Babangida (2003) 3 NWLR (Pt.808) 604, the Supreme Court succinctly held that: "The National Assembly cannot enact a general Law for the establishment of tribunals of inquiry for, and applicable in, the Federation of Nigeria. The power to enact such a Law has become a residual matter for the States in respect of which the Houses of Assembly can legislate for their respective States by virtue of Section 4(7)(a) of the 1999 Constitution. Although the Tribunals of Inquiry Act is an "existing law," its application is limited and has no general application". Flowing from the decision of Supreme Court, it is clear like crystal that the Federal Government of Nigeria can only set up Tribunal for the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and not for States of the federation.
5. It is not in doubt that matters relating to the police and other security agencies established by law are on the exclusive legislative list. It is equally not a subject of controversy that Section 21 of the Tribunal of Inquiry Law of Lagos State empowers the Governor to exercise his powers under the Law in respect of matters within the legislative competence of the state. My only question is whether issues of human rights are within the legislative competence of state governments and whether the panels so constituted can look into the atrocities and human rights violations committed by the police and other security agencies?
6. In AG Abia State v. AG Federation (2006) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1005) 265, the Supreme Court clarified that matters not included in the exclusive and concurrent lists are residual and are meant for the State, not the Federal, to legislate upon. Human rights related matters are neither on the exclusive or concurrent lists, therefore, they are within the legislative competence of Lagos state. Thus, the Lagos State government can validly make laws in respect of human rights and constitute panels to investigate cases of human rights violations recorded within the state.
7. While the Lagos State Government cannot make laws to control, discipline or regulate security officers of the Federal Government, it has the constitutional powers to set up panels to investigate human rights abuses and in any case where the conducts of federal officers like the police and army come under checks or scrutiny, the panels so constituted have the powers in law and equity to investigate them and make valid recommendations. There is a fundamental difference between the Lagos State government legislating over matters on officers of the Federal Government and a case where officers of the Federal Government who committed heinous crimes against humanity in Lagos State become subject of a Panel of Inquiry set up by the Lagos State Government. Those that perpetrated the massacre cannot use the law as a shield from being answerable for their crimes.
8. Meanwhile, it is a rude shock that the learned silk just discovered his alleged “illegality” of the Panel over a year since it was constituted up till the point that it submitted its reports. This sudden attack on the legal validity of the panel is strange and quite suspicious. One wonders if the Honourable Minister would have maintained the same position if the Panel reports and recommendations absolved the Federal Government of any wrongdoing. I daresay that the opinion of the Honourable Minister is calculated to discredit the valid reports of the panel. Too late! The truth is in the open and no attempt to thwart the genuine efforts of the EndSARS panel will succeed.
9. I find it self-immolating that the same Federal Government that directed that the panel be set up and submitted itself to its jurisdiction is coming forward to challenge the constitutionality of the panel. It shows a great level of dissimulation and double-standard. Why is the Federal Government blowing hot and cold? Why is the Federal Government approbating and reprobating? It is illegal and immoral for the Federal Government to submit to the jurisdiction of the Panel and later retract when the verdict is “unfavorable”.
10. In the light of the foregoing, I call on well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the views of Mr. Keyamo as it is grossly misleading, made in bad faith and calculated to distract the incontrovertible fact that Nigeria is currently ruled by merchants of death.
FESTUS OGUN, ESQ.
29 November, 2021
2. With due respect, the position of the learned Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is grossly misconceived, suspiciously misleading and does not reflect the true position of the law. The Lagos EndSARS panel was constituted within the ambits of law and its investigative powers are neither overreaching nor beyond the scope of the 1999 Constitution.
3. First, Section 1 of the Tribunal of Inquiry Law, Cap T7, Laws of Lagos State, 2015, confers power on the Governor of Lagos State to constitute the judicial panel to investigate “any matter in respect of which in the opinion an inquiry would be for the public welfare”. Instructively, it is settled law that the Federal Government lacks the power and authority to constitute judicial panels or any tribunal whatsoever for state governments. With a clear understanding that the Federal Government lacks the constitutional vires to constitute tribunal for states, the National Economic Council, NEC, last year directed the immediate establishment of State-based Judicial Panels of Inquiry to investigate complaints of police brutality or related extrajudicial killings with a view to delivering justice for all victims of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squads (SARS) and other police units.
4. In the popular case of Fawehinmi v. Babangida (2003) 3 NWLR (Pt.808) 604, the Supreme Court succinctly held that: "The National Assembly cannot enact a general Law for the establishment of tribunals of inquiry for, and applicable in, the Federation of Nigeria. The power to enact such a Law has become a residual matter for the States in respect of which the Houses of Assembly can legislate for their respective States by virtue of Section 4(7)(a) of the 1999 Constitution. Although the Tribunals of Inquiry Act is an "existing law," its application is limited and has no general application". Flowing from the decision of Supreme Court, it is clear like crystal that the Federal Government of Nigeria can only set up Tribunal for the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and not for States of the federation.
5. It is not in doubt that matters relating to the police and other security agencies established by law are on the exclusive legislative list. It is equally not a subject of controversy that Section 21 of the Tribunal of Inquiry Law of Lagos State empowers the Governor to exercise his powers under the Law in respect of matters within the legislative competence of the state. My only question is whether issues of human rights are within the legislative competence of state governments and whether the panels so constituted can look into the atrocities and human rights violations committed by the police and other security agencies?
6. In AG Abia State v. AG Federation (2006) 16 NWLR (Pt. 1005) 265, the Supreme Court clarified that matters not included in the exclusive and concurrent lists are residual and are meant for the State, not the Federal, to legislate upon. Human rights related matters are neither on the exclusive or concurrent lists, therefore, they are within the legislative competence of Lagos state. Thus, the Lagos State government can validly make laws in respect of human rights and constitute panels to investigate cases of human rights violations recorded within the state.
7. While the Lagos State Government cannot make laws to control, discipline or regulate security officers of the Federal Government, it has the constitutional powers to set up panels to investigate human rights abuses and in any case where the conducts of federal officers like the police and army come under checks or scrutiny, the panels so constituted have the powers in law and equity to investigate them and make valid recommendations. There is a fundamental difference between the Lagos State government legislating over matters on officers of the Federal Government and a case where officers of the Federal Government who committed heinous crimes against humanity in Lagos State become subject of a Panel of Inquiry set up by the Lagos State Government. Those that perpetrated the massacre cannot use the law as a shield from being answerable for their crimes.
8. Meanwhile, it is a rude shock that the learned silk just discovered his alleged “illegality” of the Panel over a year since it was constituted up till the point that it submitted its reports. This sudden attack on the legal validity of the panel is strange and quite suspicious. One wonders if the Honourable Minister would have maintained the same position if the Panel reports and recommendations absolved the Federal Government of any wrongdoing. I daresay that the opinion of the Honourable Minister is calculated to discredit the valid reports of the panel. Too late! The truth is in the open and no attempt to thwart the genuine efforts of the EndSARS panel will succeed.
9. I find it self-immolating that the same Federal Government that directed that the panel be set up and submitted itself to its jurisdiction is coming forward to challenge the constitutionality of the panel. It shows a great level of dissimulation and double-standard. Why is the Federal Government blowing hot and cold? Why is the Federal Government approbating and reprobating? It is illegal and immoral for the Federal Government to submit to the jurisdiction of the Panel and later retract when the verdict is “unfavorable”.
10. In the light of the foregoing, I call on well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the views of Mr. Keyamo as it is grossly misleading, made in bad faith and calculated to distract the incontrovertible fact that Nigeria is currently ruled by merchants of death.
FESTUS OGUN, ESQ.
29 November, 2021
SUMMARY:
● The panel has confirmed without ambiguity that Lekki Toll Gate massacre happened.
● The Army & Police indicted of carrying out the Massacre
● The panel has named all victims and proposed compensations.
● proposed punishments for all the security personnel involved in the killings.
● The panel has proposed naming the Lekki Toll gate “EndSARS Toll Gate”
● The Lekki Concession company(LCC) owners of the Toll gate attempted a cover up of the atrocities perpetrated by the Nigerian Army and Police.
LEKKI SHOOTING: THAT WAS A MASSACRE!
Can Jide Sanwoolu, Lai Mohammed, Garba Shehu, Raji Fashola and others asking “where are the bodies?” honourably bury their heads in shame now that the submitted #EndSars Panel report has shown that there was indeed a massacre?
Everyone knows there was a massacre; it is a living truth that is incontrovertible. The authorities are equally aware that the tragedy that occurred at Lekki Tollgate October 2020 was a mindless massacre. They masterminded the evil just to break the undying resolve of protesting youths yearning for a country that respects human rights and social justice.
Now that the youths have been vindicated, will the authorities truly implement the recommendations of the Panel? Will the APC government ever apologize to young people and admit that its dirty hands are full of blood and the spirit of the slain innocent is crying bitterly in heaven for vengeance?
Given that the #EndSars struggle was a major reason why Twitter was banned, would the Buhari regime truly apologize and lift the thoughtless ban with immediate effect? Would the Buhari regime place itself in the witness box and answer questions over the fatal murder of courageous Nigerians exercising their fundamental rights to protest and freedom of expression and association?
For there be true peace in Nigeria, those massacred must get justice. Now that the truth has been corroborated, consequences must be meted out against those found wanting. And that will start from President Muhammadu Buhari, the very Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces. No justice, no peace.
We will never forget.
Festus Ogun, ESQ
Names of the victims:
This is the documented VICTIMS' list of #LekkiMassacre as released by the Lagos panel .
With this, it shows that LAI MOHAMMED is an unrepentant old LIAR. The fact remains that the #Buhari regime murdered Nigerian Youths on October 20, 2020.
SUMMARY:
● The panel has confirmed without ambiguity that Lekki Toll Gate massacre happened.
● The Army & Police indicted of carrying out the Massacre
● The panel has named all victims and proposed compensations.
● proposed punishments for all the security personnel involved in the killings.
● The panel has proposed naming the Lekki Toll gate “EndSARS Toll Gate”
● The Lekki Concession company(LCC) owners of the Toll gate attempted a cover up of the atrocities perpetrated by the Nigerian Army and Police.
LEKKI SHOOTING: THAT WAS A MASSACRE!
Can Jide Sanwoolu, Lai Mohammed, Garba Shehu, Raji Fashola and others asking “where are the bodies?” honourably bury their heads in shame now that the submitted #EndSars Panel report has shown that there was indeed a massacre?
Everyone knows there was a massacre; it is a living truth that is incontrovertible. The authorities are equally aware that the tragedy that occurred at Lekki Tollgate October 2020 was a mindless massacre. They masterminded the evil just to break the undying resolve of protesting youths yearning for a country that respects human rights and social justice.
Now that the youths have been vindicated, will the authorities truly implement the recommendations of the Panel? Will the APC government ever apologize to young people and admit that its dirty hands are full of blood and the spirit of the slain innocent is crying bitterly in heaven for vengeance?
Given that the #EndSars struggle was a major reason why Twitter was banned, would the Buhari regime truly apologize and lift the thoughtless ban with immediate effect? Would the Buhari regime place itself in the witness box and answer questions over the fatal murder of courageous Nigerians exercising their fundamental rights to protest and freedom of expression and association?
For there be true peace in Nigeria, those massacred must get justice. Now that the truth has been corroborated, consequences must be meted out against those found wanting. And that will start from President Muhammadu Buhari, the very Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces. No justice, no peace.
We will never forget.
Festus Ogun, ESQ
Names of the victims:
This is the documented VICTIMS' list of #LekkiMassacre as released by the Lagos panel .
With this, it shows that LAI MOHAMMED is an unrepentant old LIAR. The fact remains that the #Buhari regime murdered Nigerian Youths on October 20, 2020.
Day 7 Tributes
We Will Win
Pain before gain
Gain after pain
Work before Rest
Rest after work
Battle before victory
Victoria after battle
We mustn't relent
We Will Win
History will absolve Us
Standing here could be odd
It is not a place for everyone
It is a place for the selfless
A place of love and humanity
Not of gold and greed
Enduring but rewarding
We will win
Wake up the wretched of the earth
Rise the people of the world
Sitting is harmful
Rise and take your birthplace
Freedom won't come cheap
It must and will be fought for
It is a war
And We will Win
Our victory is certain
If we fight
Our freedom is certain
If we dare to struggle
We must not be discouraged
We must remain undefeatable
History is on our side
We will Win
We will win
Let unite and fight
We will win
Let all say no to injustice
We will win
Let raise our voice against inequality
We will win
The People United can never be defeated
Day 7 Tributes
We Will Win
Pain before gain
Gain after pain
Work before Rest
Rest after work
Battle before victory
Victoria after battle
We mustn't relent
We Will Win
History will absolve Us
Standing here could be odd
It is not a place for everyone
It is a place for the selfless
A place of love and humanity
Not of gold and greed
Enduring but rewarding
We will win
Wake up the wretched of the earth
Rise the people of the world
Sitting is harmful
Rise and take your birthplace
Freedom won't come cheap
It must and will be fought for
It is a war
And We will Win
Our victory is certain
If we fight
Our freedom is certain
If we dare to struggle
We must not be discouraged
We must remain undefeatable
History is on our side
We will Win
We will win
Let unite and fight
We will win
Let all say no to injustice
We will win
Let raise our voice against inequality
We will win
The People United can never be defeated
Day 5 tributes
Hoodlum
No one is born Hoodlum
It is the creation of the state
No one is born a destitute
It is the creation of the state
Where is our commonwealth?
It is in the hands of the greedy few
In nature, there is abundance for all
For the greed, it is never enough
Their quest for more has no limit
Hundred heads for the work
One hand for the profit
A drop for hundred mouths
Shower for a few mouths
In between hoodlums are the birth
The race for survival begins
Every man for himself
Communal Love lost
Fish feeds on fish
Brotherhood
lost its Place
Make it or die trying
Beat them or join them
That is the song
Song of sorrow
The State and all of us
Must rise to our communal duty
that every child is ours
and must be cared for
for everyone to have a night rest
Tell the state to educate them
and not to keep them as political tools
They deserve to have a name
like me and you
Any child can be a hoodlum
Any hoodlum can be a child
It is just a matter of privilege
Day 5 tributes
Hoodlum
No one is born Hoodlum
It is the creation of the state
No one is born a destitute
It is the creation of the state
Where is our commonwealth?
It is in the hands of the greedy few
In nature, there is abundance for all
For the greed, it is never enough
Their quest for more has no limit
Hundred heads for the work
One hand for the profit
A drop for hundred mouths
Shower for a few mouths
In between hoodlums are the birth
The race for survival begins
Every man for himself
Communal Love lost
Fish feeds on fish
Brotherhood
lost its Place
Make it or die trying
Beat them or join them
That is the song
Song of sorrow
The State and all of us
Must rise to our communal duty
that every child is ours
and must be cared for
for everyone to have a night rest
Tell the state to educate them
and not to keep them as political tools
They deserve to have a name
like me and you
Any child can be a hoodlum
Any hoodlum can be a child
It is just a matter of privilege
Tributes and Tears: LETTER TO MY BROTHERS IN UNIFORM
In uniform lies your power
The power to kill and mute
In uniform lies your power
The power to repress
In uniform lies your dignity
The dignity to be human
In uniform lies your courage
The courage to stand tall
If you don't know, know now that
This uniform is a symbol
This uniform is an authority
This uniform is a collective power
The power to protect not to kill
The power to serve not to exploit
The power build not to destroy
But the stories are otherwise
If you don't know
The system has caged your voice
The system has muted your tongue
The system has enslaved your mind
They make you see your brothers as enemies
And your enemies as friends
And fighting, those fighting your battle
And to what ends?
Outside the uniform
Your pains are mine
Outside the uniform
We both live among the
Wretched of the earth
From hand to mouth
The market price and bills
Has no regard for Uniform
Our needs are uniform
The Uniform makes no difference
Your children like mine are out of school
Your graduates like mine are jobless
Our roads are death trap
Our hospitals are mogul
The drop from the illicit
Won't make you any difference
Reason out of Slavery
Think outside the box
Only if you know that
Those you protect are your enemies
Those you murder on order
Are your true friends
Because they speak where you are mute by duty
Dear brothers in uniform
Join the battle for freedom
Not against it
Come to the side of Justice
Move to the side of humanity
Defend your friends
Battle along with your friends
so together we can defeat our common enemy.
Tributes and Tears: LETTER TO MY BROTHERS IN UNIFORM
In uniform lies your power
The power to kill and mute
In uniform lies your power
The power to repress
In uniform lies your dignity
The dignity to be human
In uniform lies your courage
The courage to stand tall
If you don't know, know now that
This uniform is a symbol
This uniform is an authority
This uniform is a collective power
The power to protect not to kill
The power to serve not to exploit
The power build not to destroy
But the stories are otherwise
If you don't know
The system has caged your voice
The system has muted your tongue
The system has enslaved your mind
They make you see your brothers as enemies
And your enemies as friends
And fighting, those fighting your battle
And to what ends?
Outside the uniform
Your pains are mine
Outside the uniform
We both live among the
Wretched of the earth
From hand to mouth
The market price and bills
Has no regard for Uniform
Our needs are uniform
The Uniform makes no difference
Your children like mine are out of school
Your graduates like mine are jobless
Our roads are death trap
Our hospitals are mogul
The drop from the illicit
Won't make you any difference
Reason out of Slavery
Think outside the box
Only if you know that
Those you protect are your enemies
Those you murder on order
Are your true friends
Because they speak where you are mute by duty
Dear brothers in uniform
Join the battle for freedom
Not against it
Come to the side of Justice
Move to the side of humanity
Defend your friends
Battle along with your friends
so together we can defeat our common enemy.
We have written to the Lagos State Government through the Attorney General of Lagos State to demand payment of
Adedotun Clement is the innocent Uber driver that was assaulted by some officers of the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) and Nigeria Police Force during the first anniversary of the #EndSARS protest at Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos.
In addition to payment of monetary compensation, we also demanded that disciplinary measures be taken against the culprits who assaulted Adedotun, and that they should be prosecuted in court in line with the Anti-Torture Act and the Criminal Law of Lagos State.
Also, we are equally demanding a written apology from the state government.
It should be noted that the vehicle of Mr. Adedotun has been returned but in a bad condition. The agents of the state government broke and damaged the front windscreen of his Toyota Corolla. The vehicle was in good condition before it was towed away on Wednesday, 20th October, 2021. But upon reaching where the vehicle was taken to on Friday, 22nd October, 2021, Adedotun saw the destruction done to his vehicle by agents of the state government.
The implication is that he cannot use the vehicle to earn a living until it is repaired.
My attention has been drawn to the public statement by the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency (LNSA) wherein it is stated that two officers of the agency were subjected to orderly room trial, found guilty of assault and general unruly behaviour and suspended for two months.
While we commend the Lagos State Government for admitting that the conduct of its agents was criminal and unprofessional, we find the two months suspension meted on the two officers grossly insufficient and unacceptable. It is not a deterrence. The officers should be dismissed and diligently prosecuted in a court of law to serve as a deterrence to others.
Finally, we are expecting the Lagos State Government to respond to our modest demands within 48 hours or we will have no other option but to commence legal proceedings to seek redress for Adedotun.
INIBEHE EFFIONG, ESQ.
Principal Counsel.
We have written to the Lagos State Government through the Attorney General of Lagos State to demand payment of
Adedotun Clement is the innocent Uber driver that was assaulted by some officers of the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) and Nigeria Police Force during the first anniversary of the #EndSARS protest at Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos.
In addition to payment of monetary compensation, we also demanded that disciplinary measures be taken against the culprits who assaulted Adedotun, and that they should be prosecuted in court in line with the Anti-Torture Act and the Criminal Law of Lagos State.
Also, we are equally demanding a written apology from the state government.
It should be noted that the vehicle of Mr. Adedotun has been returned but in a bad condition. The agents of the state government broke and damaged the front windscreen of his Toyota Corolla. The vehicle was in good condition before it was towed away on Wednesday, 20th October, 2021. But upon reaching where the vehicle was taken to on Friday, 22nd October, 2021, Adedotun saw the destruction done to his vehicle by agents of the state government.
The implication is that he cannot use the vehicle to earn a living until it is repaired.
My attention has been drawn to the public statement by the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency (LNSA) wherein it is stated that two officers of the agency were subjected to orderly room trial, found guilty of assault and general unruly behaviour and suspended for two months.
While we commend the Lagos State Government for admitting that the conduct of its agents was criminal and unprofessional, we find the two months suspension meted on the two officers grossly insufficient and unacceptable. It is not a deterrence. The officers should be dismissed and diligently prosecuted in a court of law to serve as a deterrence to others.
Finally, we are expecting the Lagos State Government to respond to our modest demands within 48 hours or we will have no other option but to commence legal proceedings to seek redress for Adedotun.
INIBEHE EFFIONG, ESQ.
Principal Counsel.
Day 3 of Tributes and Tears
Government Panel
Government killing
Government setup
Government hearing
Government Judges
We be fool?
We no be fool
We be moron?
We no be moron
Who are these gunmen?
General said, unknown soldiers
Who give the order?
Lagos Oracle said, My hands up
We be fool ?
We no be fool
We be moron ?
We no be a moron
Lai lied, we were not there
General said we were there
The governor invites us
Lagos Oracle go mute
We be fool?
We no be a fool
We be moron ?
We no be moron
Government can't kill and give Justice
All panels are camouflage
Our eyes done open
And our ears aren't deaf
We be fool?
We no be a fool
We be moron?
We no be moron
Arrange panel
Arrange hearing
Give me the answer
Government arrangement.
Arrange Masters oooo
Day 3 of Tributes and Tears
Government Panel
Government killing
Government setup
Government hearing
Government Judges
We be fool?
We no be fool
We be moron?
We no be moron
Who are these gunmen?
General said, unknown soldiers
Who give the order?
Lagos Oracle said, My hands up
We be fool ?
We no be fool
We be moron ?
We no be a moron
Lai lied, we were not there
General said we were there
The governor invites us
Lagos Oracle go mute
We be fool?
We no be a fool
We be moron ?
We no be moron
Government can't kill and give Justice
All panels are camouflage
Our eyes done open
And our ears aren't deaf
We be fool?
We no be a fool
We be moron?
We no be moron
Arrange panel
Arrange hearing
Give me the answer
Government arrangement.
Arrange Masters oooo
Day 2...of Tributes and Tears...
Poem by Ola Olawale
A Genocide at noon
We were singing
Asking for Justice
We were singing
Asking for freedom
We were singing
Saying end police brutality
We were singing
Saying end unjust killing
We were singing
For a just nation
We were singing
For an inclusive government
We were singing
With passion for the flag
We were Singing
Saying enough is enough
Suddenly the light went off
The camera got missing
The state is at work
Before the blink of an eye
In battalion, they arrived
Armed to the teeth
In battle mood, ready for exchange
With armless PATRIOTS
Soon, bullet here and there
life became lifeless
the song turns to sorrow
the smile turns to tears
All head for save haven
Hand raise hand in blood
Tears flows, from still breathing eyes
Mouth grieve for survival
See our brothers in Pain
See Our sister grieving
See Our Comrades in grave
A Genocide at noon
A Just cause
A lawful gathering of goodwill
A spot for songs of freedom
Turn a place of sorrow.
This Government is EVIL
Day 2...of Tributes and Tears...
Poem by Ola Olawale
A Genocide at noon
We were singing
Asking for Justice
We were singing
Asking for freedom
We were singing
Saying end police brutality
We were singing
Saying end unjust killing
We were singing
For a just nation
We were singing
For an inclusive government
We were singing
With passion for the flag
We were Singing
Saying enough is enough
Suddenly the light went off
The camera got missing
The state is at work
Before the blink of an eye
In battalion, they arrived
Armed to the teeth
In battle mood, ready for exchange
With armless PATRIOTS
Soon, bullet here and there
life became lifeless
the song turns to sorrow
the smile turns to tears
All head for save haven
Hand raise hand in blood
Tears flows, from still breathing eyes
Mouth grieve for survival
See our brothers in Pain
See Our sister grieving
See Our Comrades in grave
A Genocide at noon
A Just cause
A lawful gathering of goodwill
A spot for songs of freedom
Turn a place of sorrow.
This Government is EVIL
Tribute
See our brothers in pain
see our sisters in blood
See our friends in sorrow
See our Mothers mourning
Tears, Blood, and Sorrow everywhere
They murdered us in broad daylight
They silent our voice seeking freedom with bullets
What was our crime?
We ask for Justice
We ask for a better policing
We ask for an end to brutal killings
We ask them to stop killing our future
We ask for purposeful leadership
We ask for an inclusive government
That Was our Crime!
Is This a crime?
To the czar in government
it was a crime
They respond with battalions
And murder us off camera
They plan it all perfect
We will keep the tempo
We will keep the candle on
We will remain in the barricade
We will fight to finish
Your sacrifice won't go in vain
Keep resting in power
Patriots you are, not looters
Tribute to our brothers and sisters, colleagues and friends, who were murdered by the Nigerian State on 20-10-2020 while on peaceful protest.
Tribute
See our brothers in pain
see our sisters in blood
See our friends in sorrow
See our Mothers mourning
Tears, Blood, and Sorrow everywhere
They murdered us in broad daylight
They silent our voice seeking freedom with bullets
What was our crime?
We ask for Justice
We ask for a better policing
We ask for an end to brutal killings
We ask them to stop killing our future
We ask for purposeful leadership
We ask for an inclusive government
That Was our Crime!
Is This a crime?
To the czar in government
it was a crime
They respond with battalions
And murder us off camera
They plan it all perfect
We will keep the tempo
We will keep the candle on
We will remain in the barricade
We will fight to finish
Your sacrifice won't go in vain
Keep resting in power
Patriots you are, not looters
Tribute to our brothers and sisters, colleagues and friends, who were murdered by the Nigerian State on 20-10-2020 while on peaceful protest.
(Being a Press Statement of the TAKE IT BACK MOVEMENT, Osun State)
Yesterday, members of the Endsars movement, mainly youths took to the street in Osun state and across the world to commemorate one year anniversary of the biggest mass protest in the history of Nigeria. It was on record that these protesters were exercising their rights in accordance with the law. Members of the press were also present to cover the event within the dictates of their profession.
Similarly, We want to put it on record that the police and DSSS men has been chasing organizers of the Endsarsmemorial since about 3 days before the protest. This is evident in the way the Commissioner of police has been calling and threatening to arrest one of our the organizers; Olushayo babawale ogunleye.
Also, efforts were made by the police to stop the press parley that was bid to be held at NUJ correspondence and when the venue was changed,the police and DSSS made further attempts to stampede the press parley. If was further observed that protest organizers was been trailed by some unknown men on a motorcycle around Ogo-oluwa the new venue for the press parley. Worthy of Observation is also that Combined forces of Police and DSSS took charge of the convergence point of the protest, harrasing protesters on arrival.
Based on the foregoing, It is pertinent to state that Protest is a universally recognized fundamental right of citizens and it would never be given up to any security and government agents based on any threat. We hereby wants to equivocally state that the Nigerian police has become a puppet of the ruling class for too long and this should stop. We want to state that the primary function of the police is security of life and property, thus it is our expectation that the police should protect protesters at all time. Hence we demand that;
1 The DPO of Dupe police division and all the twelve officers involved should be investigated and prosecuted for the illegall arrest and torture of Mr Sikiru Obarayese, the Daily Post reporter.
2 The commissioner of police should unravel the unknown men who have been trailing Olushayo babawale ogunleye, One of the organizers of Endsarsmemorial. We maintain that if anything happens to him, the CP would be held responsible.
3 The Nigerian police force should investigate and made public the killers of ALIMI AHMED and MUTIU LAWAL FRESH murdered in cold blood during the univited and provocative visit of Governor Gboyega Oyetola to the barricades at the #EndSARS protests last year October.
4 The Nigerian police force should publicly apologize for attacking, arresting and dehumanizing Mr Sikiru Obarayese.
We want to state clearly that Protests, such as was held yesterday would never be stopped in a democracy, therefore police and other security agency should stop brutalisation of protesters and rather protect them at all time.
Samson Tola
Owolabi Opeyemi
TIB Ag Coordinator and Secretary.
(Being a Press Statement of the TAKE IT BACK MOVEMENT, Osun State)
Yesterday, members of the Endsars movement, mainly youths took to the street in Osun state and across the world to commemorate one year anniversary of the biggest mass protest in the history of Nigeria. It was on record that these protesters were exercising their rights in accordance with the law. Members of the press were also present to cover the event within the dictates of their profession.
Similarly, We want to put it on record that the police and DSSS men has been chasing organizers of the Endsarsmemorial since about 3 days before the protest. This is evident in the way the Commissioner of police has been calling and threatening to arrest one of our the organizers; Olushayo babawale ogunleye.
Also, efforts were made by the police to stop the press parley that was bid to be held at NUJ correspondence and when the venue was changed,the police and DSSS made further attempts to stampede the press parley. If was further observed that protest organizers was been trailed by some unknown men on a motorcycle around Ogo-oluwa the new venue for the press parley. Worthy of Observation is also that Combined forces of Police and DSSS took charge of the convergence point of the protest, harrasing protesters on arrival.
Based on the foregoing, It is pertinent to state that Protest is a universally recognized fundamental right of citizens and it would never be given up to any security and government agents based on any threat. We hereby wants to equivocally state that the Nigerian police has become a puppet of the ruling class for too long and this should stop. We want to state that the primary function of the police is security of life and property, thus it is our expectation that the police should protect protesters at all time. Hence we demand that;
1 The DPO of Dupe police division and all the twelve officers involved should be investigated and prosecuted for the illegall arrest and torture of Mr Sikiru Obarayese, the Daily Post reporter.
2 The commissioner of police should unravel the unknown men who have been trailing Olushayo babawale ogunleye, One of the organizers of Endsarsmemorial. We maintain that if anything happens to him, the CP would be held responsible.
3 The Nigerian police force should investigate and made public the killers of ALIMI AHMED and MUTIU LAWAL FRESH murdered in cold blood during the univited and provocative visit of Governor Gboyega Oyetola to the barricades at the #EndSARS protests last year October.
4 The Nigerian police force should publicly apologize for attacking, arresting and dehumanizing Mr Sikiru Obarayese.
We want to state clearly that Protests, such as was held yesterday would never be stopped in a democracy, therefore police and other security agency should stop brutalisation of protesters and rather protect them at all time.
Samson Tola
Owolabi Opeyemi
TIB Ag Coordinator and Secretary.
AAC DESCRIBES IT AS IRRESPONSIBLE AND IT CONFIRMS OUR POSITION THAT THE BUHARI REGIME IS TERRORISTIC
#ENDSARSMEMORIAL: WHY THE PEOPLE OF NIGERIA MUST PRESS ON UNTIL JUSTICE IS SERVED.
Rather than share consolations and seek restitution, after accepting the ignominious role it played in quelling the most organized civil disobedience in recent history, as it is expected of a government in the 21st century, the regime has shown maximum recalcitrance; such that reeks of corruption and a megalomaniac posture.
Reading through the gaffe Lai issued as a statement, no one would argue that the sole intention of the Minister was to protect by all means necessary the face of the regime from local and international shame because it has lost out on the debate. He failed woefully.
The description of the massacre as “phantom” by the infamous Minister of “misinformation” is the highest form of insensitivity and irresponsibility any government official could show at a time like this. Not even on a day when the largest demography- the youths, are remembering their loved ones who were slain for standing up for their fundamental human rights; in particular, their right to life.
The AAC as a revolutionary party would do all that is possible not to allow history to be distorted right before our eyes.
The EndSARS protest that lasted over 12 days witnessed massive participation from both the young and elderly, wherein the young people showed to the world how organized Nigerians are, when there is a unity of purpose. Rallies, marches, even concerts were held nationally peacefully until the government Lai represents showed up in its usual oppressive and suppressive style.
We all saw how government vehicles ferried armed thugs to disrupt the protest grounds across states after the Police failed in the assigned repression. In Lagos, air-conditioned buses were used to move those who would cause a mayhem and despite their faces being exposed everywhere on social media, no arrest was made.
Vehicles with FGN-number plate were offloading thugs while men dressed in outfits similar to the DSS’s were seen supervising their onslaught on protesting citizens. This brings us to the conclusion that the government was the sole purveyor of violence during EndSARS protests. This remains so, even today.
It is important to cast our minds back to the statement of President Muhammadu Buhari when he was asked about the #EndSARS protests by journalists. The President shamelessly declared that the young people wanted to chase him out of office. Doesn’t it call for concern that the President’s understanding of a protest of such magnitude, armed only with clear demands was reduced to a planned coup?
What was/is the President afraid of?
This brings us to an inference that a leopard can not change its spots. A coupist, no matter how branded as a “reformed democrat” would continue to think like a coupist.
Nigerians do not need a soothsayer to tell where the order to attack those peacefully gathered at Lekki toll gate on the 20th of October 2020, came from.
And in a manner so similar of how global terrorists operate, the Nigerian government through the Army and Police unleashed the most dastardly terror on citizens on the 20th October, 2020.
To put it in proper perspective without undue verbosity is the fact that the many lies and distortions told, first by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Sanwoolu, the truant Army representative at the Panel of Restitution set up, Brigadier General Ahmed Taiwo, the Police representative, ACP Oludotun Odubona Government lawyers and forensics analyst, have confirmed all the truth about how the massacre was planned and executed.
The African Action Congress (AAC) condemns in strongest terms the statement of the Minister; describes it as insensitive, irresponsible and a concoction of cheap lies.
Now to our demands.
1. We ask that the Minister withdraws his gaffe and start preparing his resignation letter, as the party would not hesitate to mobilize Nigerians far and wide to force such. Nigerians have had enough of the insults from Alhaji Lai Mohammed and his goons.
2. That the National Economic Council chaired by the Vice President start without any further delay, the compensation to victims of SARS brutality as recommended by the State panels.
3. Immediate arrest and open prosecution of erring SARS officers including one CSP James Nwafor who has been on the run since the protests started.
4. That the Lekki Massacre Panel report should be concluded and made public in the shortest possible time by the Lagos Restitution Panel.
5. That all EndSARS and Post-EndSARS protesters (over 300 of them) including political prisoners be released immediately and unconditionally. This executive rascality must not be allowed to continue in a democracy.
6. An apology to be made by President Muhammadu Buhari to all Nigerians who participated in #EndSARS for the role his regime played in disrespecting the rights to associate and express opinions freely; without intimidation and violent repression, as seen one year ago.
We would like to conclude with the position which we have always maintained, that until the Buhari regime and the exploitative system that produce and continue to breathe oxygen into all forms of brutalities, including economic brutality, are blotted out by the people, there would be no meaningful conclusion to our sufferings.
Signed:
Femi Adeyeye
National Publicity Secretary.
10/20/2021
AAC DESCRIBES IT AS IRRESPONSIBLE AND IT CONFIRMS OUR POSITION THAT THE BUHARI REGIME IS TERRORISTIC
#ENDSARSMEMORIAL: WHY THE PEOPLE OF NIGERIA MUST PRESS ON UNTIL JUSTICE IS SERVED.
Rather than share consolations and seek restitution, after accepting the ignominious role it played in quelling the most organized civil disobedience in recent history, as it is expected of a government in the 21st century, the regime has shown maximum recalcitrance; such that reeks of corruption and a megalomaniac posture.
Reading through the gaffe Lai issued as a statement, no one would argue that the sole intention of the Minister was to protect by all means necessary the face of the regime from local and international shame because it has lost out on the debate. He failed woefully.
The description of the massacre as “phantom” by the infamous Minister of “misinformation” is the highest form of insensitivity and irresponsibility any government official could show at a time like this. Not even on a day when the largest demography- the youths, are remembering their loved ones who were slain for standing up for their fundamental human rights; in particular, their right to life.
The AAC as a revolutionary party would do all that is possible not to allow history to be distorted right before our eyes.
The EndSARS protest that lasted over 12 days witnessed massive participation from both the young and elderly, wherein the young people showed to the world how organized Nigerians are, when there is a unity of purpose. Rallies, marches, even concerts were held nationally peacefully until the government Lai represents showed up in its usual oppressive and suppressive style.
We all saw how government vehicles ferried armed thugs to disrupt the protest grounds across states after the Police failed in the assigned repression. In Lagos, air-conditioned buses were used to move those who would cause a mayhem and despite their faces being exposed everywhere on social media, no arrest was made.
Vehicles with FGN-number plate were offloading thugs while men dressed in outfits similar to the DSS’s were seen supervising their onslaught on protesting citizens. This brings us to the conclusion that the government was the sole purveyor of violence during EndSARS protests. This remains so, even today.
It is important to cast our minds back to the statement of President Muhammadu Buhari when he was asked about the #EndSARS protests by journalists. The President shamelessly declared that the young people wanted to chase him out of office. Doesn’t it call for concern that the President’s understanding of a protest of such magnitude, armed only with clear demands was reduced to a planned coup?
What was/is the President afraid of?
This brings us to an inference that a leopard can not change its spots. A coupist, no matter how branded as a “reformed democrat” would continue to think like a coupist.
Nigerians do not need a soothsayer to tell where the order to attack those peacefully gathered at Lekki toll gate on the 20th of October 2020, came from.
And in a manner so similar of how global terrorists operate, the Nigerian government through the Army and Police unleashed the most dastardly terror on citizens on the 20th October, 2020.
To put it in proper perspective without undue verbosity is the fact that the many lies and distortions told, first by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Sanwoolu, the truant Army representative at the Panel of Restitution set up, Brigadier General Ahmed Taiwo, the Police representative, ACP Oludotun Odubona Government lawyers and forensics analyst, have confirmed all the truth about how the massacre was planned and executed.
The African Action Congress (AAC) condemns in strongest terms the statement of the Minister; describes it as insensitive, irresponsible and a concoction of cheap lies.
Now to our demands.
1. We ask that the Minister withdraws his gaffe and start preparing his resignation letter, as the party would not hesitate to mobilize Nigerians far and wide to force such. Nigerians have had enough of the insults from Alhaji Lai Mohammed and his goons.
2. That the National Economic Council chaired by the Vice President start without any further delay, the compensation to victims of SARS brutality as recommended by the State panels.
3. Immediate arrest and open prosecution of erring SARS officers including one CSP James Nwafor who has been on the run since the protests started.
4. That the Lekki Massacre Panel report should be concluded and made public in the shortest possible time by the Lagos Restitution Panel.
5. That all EndSARS and Post-EndSARS protesters (over 300 of them) including political prisoners be released immediately and unconditionally. This executive rascality must not be allowed to continue in a democracy.
6. An apology to be made by President Muhammadu Buhari to all Nigerians who participated in #EndSARS for the role his regime played in disrespecting the rights to associate and express opinions freely; without intimidation and violent repression, as seen one year ago.
We would like to conclude with the position which we have always maintained, that until the Buhari regime and the exploitative system that produce and continue to breathe oxygen into all forms of brutalities, including economic brutality, are blotted out by the people, there would be no meaningful conclusion to our sufferings.
Signed:
Femi Adeyeye
National Publicity Secretary.
10/20/2021
On 20/10/20 the world witnessed the #LekkiMassacre as the regime drowned the #EndSARS Rebellion in blood. In memorial of this day, peaceful demonstrations will take place across Nigeria, on the platform of the #EndSARS United Memorial.
The police and various states governments have threatened to stop Nigerian these.
We will not be stopped. We will exercise our fundamental right to protest, and freedom of assembly tomorrow 20 October 2021.
We want to make it unambiguously clear that we WILL GATHER to remember our dead and to remember our struggle, a genuine youth and mass movement which moved the soul of every Nigerian at home and abroad and which was punctuated by a ruthless government determined to maintain their positions of power at the cost of lives of innocent Nigerians.
We call on the Nigerian government, the Nigerian armed forces, and the Nigerian police to CEASE AND DESIST from threatening peaceful protests and memorials and from using scare tactics to dismantle a movement whose time has come. We demand that NO DROP OF NIGERIAN BLOOD be shed tomorrow. No arrests. No beatings. Just stand back and allow us to remember our fallen heroes.
We are united, to #EndSARS, to remember our dead, and to call for justice in our land. We will not be deterred and nothing can stop us.
Tomorrow we will march and gather in: Lagos; Abuja; Toronto; Ibadan; Jos; Enugu; Katsina; London; Adamawa; Port Harcourt; Benin city; Ilorin; Osogbo; Yenagoa; Asaba and Kaduna
We continue to struggle, and united, of one voice, we will surely win.
Signed:
For #EndSARS UNITED
Baba Aye (Co-convener, CORE) Gbenga Komolafe (Co-convener, CORE)
19th October 2021
On 20/10/20 the world witnessed the #LekkiMassacre as the regime drowned the #EndSARS Rebellion in blood. In memorial of this day, peaceful demonstrations will take place across Nigeria, on the platform of the #EndSARS United Memorial.
The police and various states governments have threatened to stop Nigerian these.
We will not be stopped. We will exercise our fundamental right to protest, and freedom of assembly tomorrow 20 October 2021.
We want to make it unambiguously clear that we WILL GATHER to remember our dead and to remember our struggle, a genuine youth and mass movement which moved the soul of every Nigerian at home and abroad and which was punctuated by a ruthless government determined to maintain their positions of power at the cost of lives of innocent Nigerians.
We call on the Nigerian government, the Nigerian armed forces, and the Nigerian police to CEASE AND DESIST from threatening peaceful protests and memorials and from using scare tactics to dismantle a movement whose time has come. We demand that NO DROP OF NIGERIAN BLOOD be shed tomorrow. No arrests. No beatings. Just stand back and allow us to remember our fallen heroes.
We are united, to #EndSARS, to remember our dead, and to call for justice in our land. We will not be deterred and nothing can stop us.
Tomorrow we will march and gather in: Lagos; Abuja; Toronto; Ibadan; Jos; Enugu; Katsina; London; Adamawa; Port Harcourt; Benin city; Ilorin; Osogbo; Yenagoa; Asaba and Kaduna
We continue to struggle, and united, of one voice, we will surely win.
Signed:
For #EndSARS UNITED
Baba Aye (Co-convener, CORE) Gbenga Komolafe (Co-convener, CORE)
19th October 2021
BY NEW NIGERIA NETWORK
#ENDSARS ANNIVERSARY BULLETIN NO.
Today, 20th October, 2021, we will be holding #EndSARS Anniversary Marches nationwide and globally to commemorate the first anniversary of the #EndSARS mass movement that broke out a year ago on the streets of Nigeria.
It will be recalled that exactly a year ago today, operatives of the Nigerian Army opened fire on peaceful and innocent protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate, Lagos in what the world has noted to be an horrendous massacre.
There have been denials, cover ups and falsification of facts surrounding this horrendous massacre. However, the truth continue to shine like the Northern Star.
Despite 12 months of sitting and investigating the horrendous event, the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution for SARS-Related Abuses and Other Matters became armstrung by its creating authority, the Governor of Lagos State, which denied it the extension of life of its tenure, upon which it could not provide a Report of Investigation into the Lekki Massacre.
Undoubtedly, justice is yet to be served for the dead and the slain. We have no other choice, today , 20th October, 2021 in remembering our Martyrs than to demand Justice on their behalf.
We are prepared to sustain our compelling agitations through peaceful processions within our fundamental rights to same.
ADESINA OGUNLANA
Co-Convener
08034854066
JUWON SANYAOLU
Co-Convener
0901 271 5480
AYO ADEMILUYI
For: New Nigeria Network Secretariat
09097933015
BY NEW NIGERIA NETWORK
#ENDSARS ANNIVERSARY BULLETIN NO.
Today, 20th October, 2021, we will be holding #EndSARS Anniversary Marches nationwide and globally to commemorate the first anniversary of the #EndSARS mass movement that broke out a year ago on the streets of Nigeria.
It will be recalled that exactly a year ago today, operatives of the Nigerian Army opened fire on peaceful and innocent protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate, Lagos in what the world has noted to be an horrendous massacre.
There have been denials, cover ups and falsification of facts surrounding this horrendous massacre. However, the truth continue to shine like the Northern Star.
Despite 12 months of sitting and investigating the horrendous event, the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution for SARS-Related Abuses and Other Matters became armstrung by its creating authority, the Governor of Lagos State, which denied it the extension of life of its tenure, upon which it could not provide a Report of Investigation into the Lekki Massacre.
Undoubtedly, justice is yet to be served for the dead and the slain. We have no other choice, today , 20th October, 2021 in remembering our Martyrs than to demand Justice on their behalf.
We are prepared to sustain our compelling agitations through peaceful processions within our fundamental rights to same.
ADESINA OGUNLANA
Co-Convener
08034854066
JUWON SANYAOLU
Co-Convener
0901 271 5480
AYO ADEMILUYI
For: New Nigeria Network Secretariat
09097933015
The Osun State Police Command should shelf any act of intimidation and threats against the planned #ENDSARSMEMORIAL billed for 20th October 2021 in Commemoration of those killed and injured last year.
That Youths want to mark the one year anniversary of the Endsars is no longer a clandestine information or commemoration but a Nationwide affairs and is already in the news. The police should rather be prepared to be on the protest ground to protect all while they too shone any lawless act as they want the youths/Citizens not to engage in lawlessness.
The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's led National Economic Council has few days ago issued statement which the police is echoing. Police Brutality and leadership tyranny are no longer fashionable but respect for all and sundry as the political leadership in the country and the law enforcement officers must also respect and obey the same law they are enforcing.
I am 'Dele Abiola
Read the full Police press Statement below:
Telegraphic: PRESSPOL OSOGBO POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE,
08067788119 Osun State Police Command,
E-mail: [email protected] State Headquarters,
In reply please quote… Osogbo.
Our Ref: AZ: 5650/OSS/PPRD/VOL.10/102 Date: 19th October, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 91/2021
ENDSARS MEMORIAL: OSUN POLICE WARNS AGAINST ANY FORM OF PROTEST/UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY
The intelligence that availed the police command revealed clandestine plans by some youths/group of people to embark on protest in commemoration of one year anniversary of ENDSARS saga which is scheduled to hold tomorrow 20th October, 2021.
In view of this, the Commissioner of police CP Olawale Olokode, psc, warned individual or group of individuals that are planning such in the state and their sponsor(s) to stop the plan or any of such action (s) forthwith as the Command will not allow a repeat of last year ENDSARS saga and is fully prepared to use all legitimate means to avert such intending protest.
Consequently, the State Police Command will not tolerate any unlawful protest/gathering or assembly that will jeopardize the peace of the state as the last year ‘ENDSARS saga protest’ still lingers in the minds of Nigerians especially the Police and other security agencies which caused pain, anguish, needless loss of lives and wanton destruction of public and private property.
Therefore, the Commissioner of Police has given marching order to the Area commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical units to be at alert and nip in the bud any act capable of truncating the peace of the state.
The CP advised parents and guardians to warn their wards to be law abiding, and desist from such planned protest/gathering/ assembly as the State Police Command will arrest and prosecute defaulters.
The CP advised the good people of the state to go about their lawful daily activities while the Command has taken necessary security measures to forestall any likely breakdown of law and order.
E-SIGNED
SP OPALOLA YEMISI OLAWOYIN, mnipr
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Osun State Command, Osogbo
The Osun State Police Command should shelf any act of intimidation and threats against the planned #ENDSARSMEMORIAL billed for 20th October 2021 in Commemoration of those killed and injured last year.
That Youths want to mark the one year anniversary of the Endsars is no longer a clandestine information or commemoration but a Nationwide affairs and is already in the news. The police should rather be prepared to be on the protest ground to protect all while they too shone any lawless act as they want the youths/Citizens not to engage in lawlessness.
The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's led National Economic Council has few days ago issued statement which the police is echoing. Police Brutality and leadership tyranny are no longer fashionable but respect for all and sundry as the political leadership in the country and the law enforcement officers must also respect and obey the same law they are enforcing.
I am 'Dele Abiola
Read the full Police press Statement below:
Telegraphic: PRESSPOL OSOGBO POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE,
08067788119 Osun State Police Command,
E-mail: [email protected] State Headquarters,
In reply please quote… Osogbo.
Our Ref: AZ: 5650/OSS/PPRD/VOL.10/102 Date: 19th October, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 91/2021
ENDSARS MEMORIAL: OSUN POLICE WARNS AGAINST ANY FORM OF PROTEST/UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY
The intelligence that availed the police command revealed clandestine plans by some youths/group of people to embark on protest in commemoration of one year anniversary of ENDSARS saga which is scheduled to hold tomorrow 20th October, 2021.
In view of this, the Commissioner of police CP Olawale Olokode, psc, warned individual or group of individuals that are planning such in the state and their sponsor(s) to stop the plan or any of such action (s) forthwith as the Command will not allow a repeat of last year ENDSARS saga and is fully prepared to use all legitimate means to avert such intending protest.
Consequently, the State Police Command will not tolerate any unlawful protest/gathering or assembly that will jeopardize the peace of the state as the last year ‘ENDSARS saga protest’ still lingers in the minds of Nigerians especially the Police and other security agencies which caused pain, anguish, needless loss of lives and wanton destruction of public and private property.
Therefore, the Commissioner of Police has given marching order to the Area commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical units to be at alert and nip in the bud any act capable of truncating the peace of the state.
The CP advised parents and guardians to warn their wards to be law abiding, and desist from such planned protest/gathering/ assembly as the State Police Command will arrest and prosecute defaulters.
The CP advised the good people of the state to go about their lawful daily activities while the Command has taken necessary security measures to forestall any likely breakdown of law and order.
E-SIGNED
SP OPALOLA YEMISI OLAWOYIN, mnipr
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Osun State Command, Osogbo
By Kunle Wizeman Ajayi
The working class are actually the most effective class in any social movement because of their economic power. Labour creates wealth. This is why strikes are the most feared of all protest cultures. Strikes are a combination of shutdown and mass rallies. The greatest strike so far is the January 2012 Uprising Against Subsidy Removal. And it was forced by mass protests in the streets led by the civil society organisations. But till October 20th when the Lekki massacre was conducted by the rulers, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) never joined the #EndSARS mass movement. Weakened and compromised, the Labour bearucracy maintained a criminal hold on icing the cake of the #EndSARS protests as it transformed into #EndBadGovernance at most barricades. This led to the youth movement calling for *Youth Strike* on October 18th and started implementations on the 19th. It was such a watershed that would have beaten off the criminal hold of the NLC and TUC on the needed downtool of workers. For the two days of the Youth Strike, workers complied happily. But the state responded by drowning the #EndSARS movement in blood.
While the #EndSARS held across Benue; Plateau; Nassarawa; Kwara and other states of the North Central, only Adamawa, Taraba states had marches on records. The North West was scanty except for Kaduna and Kano. But most of the North moved massively during the Post-#EndSARS Palliative liberation s from malls stacked by thieving politicians.
One year after, insecurity is ravaging the whole of the North and the mass of youths seems isolated from the national movements. This is largely to the war situations and the fact that the elites are muscling the media spaces to sell fake public opinions make it seems as if Northern people are against the South and are therefore contented with the genocides going on there. This has blocked national solidarity for hashtags like #EndInSecurity. The true mood is so sad and angry all through the North. The people want political actions and have been marching all along. Social movements across the South should network more with genuine movements in the North. This can work seriously through unconditional solidarity actions against insecurity in the North. No where is actually safe all over Nigeria as I type.
As youths are marching all over Nigeria on Wednesday to mark one year after the cruel cordinated massacres from Lekki to Oyigbo, we all need to start mobilizing the working class to rise out of their downpressing by NLC and TUC. We need the strikes to strengthen the mass movement.
Also, our hearts must go out to the North over the war by both state and Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. We must start organising political actions in solidarity with Northern youths and workers. We must abandon all the divisions fostered on us from the top. What suffers Lagosians, also suffers Sokoto people.
The time for all Oppressed to united and fight is now so our #EndSARS heroes never die in vain!
By Kunle Wizeman Ajayi
The working class are actually the most effective class in any social movement because of their economic power. Labour creates wealth. This is why strikes are the most feared of all protest cultures. Strikes are a combination of shutdown and mass rallies. The greatest strike so far is the January 2012 Uprising Against Subsidy Removal. And it was forced by mass protests in the streets led by the civil society organisations. But till October 20th when the Lekki massacre was conducted by the rulers, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) never joined the #EndSARS mass movement. Weakened and compromised, the Labour bearucracy maintained a criminal hold on icing the cake of the #EndSARS protests as it transformed into #EndBadGovernance at most barricades. This led to the youth movement calling for *Youth Strike* on October 18th and started implementations on the 19th. It was such a watershed that would have beaten off the criminal hold of the NLC and TUC on the needed downtool of workers. For the two days of the Youth Strike, workers complied happily. But the state responded by drowning the #EndSARS movement in blood.
While the #EndSARS held across Benue; Plateau; Nassarawa; Kwara and other states of the North Central, only Adamawa, Taraba states had marches on records. The North West was scanty except for Kaduna and Kano. But most of the North moved massively during the Post-#EndSARS Palliative liberation s from malls stacked by thieving politicians.
One year after, insecurity is ravaging the whole of the North and the mass of youths seems isolated from the national movements. This is largely to the war situations and the fact that the elites are muscling the media spaces to sell fake public opinions make it seems as if Northern people are against the South and are therefore contented with the genocides going on there. This has blocked national solidarity for hashtags like #EndInSecurity. The true mood is so sad and angry all through the North. The people want political actions and have been marching all along. Social movements across the South should network more with genuine movements in the North. This can work seriously through unconditional solidarity actions against insecurity in the North. No where is actually safe all over Nigeria as I type.
As youths are marching all over Nigeria on Wednesday to mark one year after the cruel cordinated massacres from Lekki to Oyigbo, we all need to start mobilizing the working class to rise out of their downpressing by NLC and TUC. We need the strikes to strengthen the mass movement.
Also, our hearts must go out to the North over the war by both state and Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. We must start organising political actions in solidarity with Northern youths and workers. We must abandon all the divisions fostered on us from the top. What suffers Lagosians, also suffers Sokoto people.
The time for all Oppressed to united and fight is now so our #EndSARS heroes never die in vain!
History has thought us, that there is a limit to human endurance, and no one or group has ever defeated the collective will of the people to seek freedom or put an end to injustice, or a system or policy that has become a thorn on their flesh.
Like the Greatest Afrobeat, Fela Anikulapo saying: my people self they fear too much, they fear to fight for freedom, they fear to fight for justice, they get reason there no one fight, mama dey for the house, I get one child, I want enjoyment, police man goes slap you, you go they look like Dondi. but this time around, the people rose above those limitations and seek freedom, demand better policing, The young, The Old, The poor, The Rich, The literate, and all of us rose to Say #EndSARS.
The czar in government took it for another social media joke, but the people were resolute in their demands and their readiness to pay the ultimate sacrifice was beyond thought, the people organized themselves, from every corner of the country, it was the same song #EndSARS. The state was shocked to the marrow, on how organized and resolute the people were, fear and sleepless nights grip their hearts, the corridor of power became restless and sleepless, the state is losing its power and authority to the people. They were forced to make a pronouncement, putting an end to the Evil Special Unit, calling for calm, setting up a Judiciary panel of inquiries in all states, promising Justice for all the affected victims.
The government and her institutions have lost their pedigree, there is a complete breakdown of trust. so the people want and demand more than just a pronouncement, they want Justice beyond the media, a new police force beyond mouth reform, and a new nation devoid of injustice, corruption, and failed leadership.
These demands were obviously beyond the reach of the currenyt failed, irresponsible, and directionless government. While our demands were just and good for all but the tyrant in government, it was a call for the overthrow and without missing words, when a government has lost its legitimacy, a call for overthrow by the people is not treason.
While we were singing the National Anthem, pledging our loyalty to our dear fatherland. The CCTV got missing, the light went off, They arrived in their battalions, and began to shoot at sight, in dark, the tollgate turn bloody, full of sorrow and tear, #Lekki Massacre. they left their trademark. Many of our sisters, brothers, friends, loyal and law-abiding citizens never returned home, that night they paid the greatest sacrifice for freedom, for justice, for humanity, and our collective good.
The State murder her citizens in broad daylight, because they demand a just and working police because they ask for a working nation because they demand better leadership because they want an inclusive government. If this is a crime that deserves death as punishment, then what do we do? to the few who are responsible for the injustice, killing of innocent citizens, misappropriation, and mismanagement of our collective wealth, who are responsible for millions of children roaming the street hopelessly, behind the poor state of our education, health, and economic sector. reaping from the poor electricity and bad road, who for their selfish reasons, turn our dear nation to just a consuming nation, make of Naira and our passport worthless pamphlets. your response is as good as mine.
To our dear brothers, sisters, and friends, and all the brave, history will be kind to you, for discovering your mission and fulfilling it, for not being a coward, for rising above the limitations, for breaking the chain of oppression. Not only on these days we will remember you, but for the rest of our time here. While we continue from where you stop keep resting in power and may your blood continue to give every hand in your untimely death sleepless nights.
When I remember the #LekkiMassacre, Water run away from my eyes, When I remember the "Innocent Blood" on the tollgate water run away from my eyes when I remember the roles of the Sanwolu and the Abuja conspiracy water run away in my eyes.
Keep Resting in Power, All Victims of #LekkiMassacre, #EndSARS, Police brutality. I remember you #PelumiOnifade and others.
Water run away from my eyes. they leave sorrow blood and tears.
By Ola Olawale
History has thought us, that there is a limit to human endurance, and no one or group has ever defeated the collective will of the people to seek freedom or put an end to injustice, or a system or policy that has become a thorn on their flesh.
Like the Greatest Afrobeat, Fela Anikulapo saying: my people self they fear too much, they fear to fight for freedom, they fear to fight for justice, they get reason there no one fight, mama dey for the house, I get one child, I want enjoyment, police man goes slap you, you go they look like Dondi. but this time around, the people rose above those limitations and seek freedom, demand better policing, The young, The Old, The poor, The Rich, The literate, and all of us rose to Say #EndSARS.
The czar in government took it for another social media joke, but the people were resolute in their demands and their readiness to pay the ultimate sacrifice was beyond thought, the people organized themselves, from every corner of the country, it was the same song #EndSARS. The state was shocked to the marrow, on how organized and resolute the people were, fear and sleepless nights grip their hearts, the corridor of power became restless and sleepless, the state is losing its power and authority to the people. They were forced to make a pronouncement, putting an end to the Evil Special Unit, calling for calm, setting up a Judiciary panel of inquiries in all states, promising Justice for all the affected victims.
The government and her institutions have lost their pedigree, there is a complete breakdown of trust. so the people want and demand more than just a pronouncement, they want Justice beyond the media, a new police force beyond mouth reform, and a new nation devoid of injustice, corruption, and failed leadership.
These demands were obviously beyond the reach of the currenyt failed, irresponsible, and directionless government. While our demands were just and good for all but the tyrant in government, it was a call for the overthrow and without missing words, when a government has lost its legitimacy, a call for overthrow by the people is not treason.
While we were singing the National Anthem, pledging our loyalty to our dear fatherland. The CCTV got missing, the light went off, They arrived in their battalions, and began to shoot at sight, in dark, the tollgate turn bloody, full of sorrow and tear, #Lekki Massacre. they left their trademark. Many of our sisters, brothers, friends, loyal and law-abiding citizens never returned home, that night they paid the greatest sacrifice for freedom, for justice, for humanity, and our collective good.
The State murder her citizens in broad daylight, because they demand a just and working police because they ask for a working nation because they demand better leadership because they want an inclusive government. If this is a crime that deserves death as punishment, then what do we do? to the few who are responsible for the injustice, killing of innocent citizens, misappropriation, and mismanagement of our collective wealth, who are responsible for millions of children roaming the street hopelessly, behind the poor state of our education, health, and economic sector. reaping from the poor electricity and bad road, who for their selfish reasons, turn our dear nation to just a consuming nation, make of Naira and our passport worthless pamphlets. your response is as good as mine.
To our dear brothers, sisters, and friends, and all the brave, history will be kind to you, for discovering your mission and fulfilling it, for not being a coward, for rising above the limitations, for breaking the chain of oppression. Not only on these days we will remember you, but for the rest of our time here. While we continue from where you stop keep resting in power and may your blood continue to give every hand in your untimely death sleepless nights.
When I remember the #LekkiMassacre, Water run away from my eyes, When I remember the "Innocent Blood" on the tollgate water run away from my eyes when I remember the roles of the Sanwolu and the Abuja conspiracy water run away in my eyes.
Keep Resting in Power, All Victims of #LekkiMassacre, #EndSARS, Police brutality. I remember you #PelumiOnifade and others.
Water run away from my eyes. they leave sorrow blood and tears.
By Ola Olawale
Omoyele Sowore
Omoyele Sowore
For many that were arraigned in court, the Nigeria police has not been able to provide convincing evidence as to the cookup allegations leveled against them.
October 20 2020 was the real black day when the security operatives comprises of the police, the Nigerian Army and others on their cohort evil agenda opened fires on the peaceful protesters holding the Nigerian flags at Lekki toll gate in Lagos State.
With series of denial, panel of enquires were set up in 28 states and revelations were already in the public that Nigerian government through the security apparatus of the State killed her abled body youths for demanding for good governance and leadership from the Major General Muhammadu Buhari led Federal lawless regime.
As Memorial programs were lined up by the concerned Nigerian youths to mark the one year of the killing, the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's led National Economic Council has confirmed the administration's failure again that the country is unsafe under this regime to guarantee the constitutional right to protest and therefore can't protect the protesters, if they choose to protest to mark the one year anniversary of those innocents killed last year by this incumbent regime.
To dose the tensions the Osinbajo led NEC have resolved that payment of compensation to victims should proceed with each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, establishing the modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the panels.
Equally, NEC, which is composed of all State Governors in the Federation and representatives of the FG, Chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also unanimously resolved today to ensure the prosecution of persons indicted by the panels. The Council specifically directed States "to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
However, let them scale through this month, you will hardly hear anything about the NEC resolutions again unless their is another crisis threatening their authorities.
The Boko Haram/ISWAP and other terrorists who killed, raped and abducted citizens and even security officers are already been pardoned and reintegrated back to the society by the pro-terrorists Buhari led Government.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I am 'Dele Abiola
READ THEIR FULL PRESS STATEMENT BELOW:
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
𝗡𝗘𝗖: 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦, 𝗙𝗚 𝗧𝗢 𝗣𝗔𝗬 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗢 𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗗
*Council also strongly advises against planned protests considering security situation
*Urges organisers to consider other options
In receipt of reports from judicial panels regarding EndSARS protests set up in 28 States across the country and in the FCT, the National Economic Council have resolved that payment of compensation to victims should proceed with each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, establishing the modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the panels.
Equally, NEC, which is composed of all State Governors in the Federation and representatives of the FG, Chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, also unanimously resolved today to ensure the prosecution of persons indicted by the panels. The Council specifically directed States "to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
"Where incidents in the reports relate to matters of discipline, in addition to prosecution, NEC urged the Nigeria Police Force to take disciplinary action on the affected officers in line with the provisions of the Police Act 2020."
Also rising from today's NEC meeting, members strongly advised those planning protests to mark the anniversary of the ENDSARS to reconsider the option in view of "current security situation across the country and the possibility of such protests being hijacked by armed hoodlums and other opportunistic criminals to cause mayhem at such protest events and venues."
Below are the NEC resolutions on the panels and an advisory on the planned protests:
NATIONAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS ON “ENDSARS” PANELS’ REPORTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY - 15TH OCTOBER 2021
At its meeting today, 15th October 2021, the National Economic Council (NEC/Council) received an update on the Reports of Judicial Panels of Inquiry into Allegations of Human Rights Violations against Members of Nigeria Police Force and other Security Agencies.
2. It may be recalled that following the October 2020 #EndSARS protests, which later transformed into violent demonstrations, in furtherance of resolution of NEC, twenty-eight (28) States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) (under the auspices of the National Human Rights Commission) had set up Judicial Panels/Commissions of Inquiry (Panels) to investigate allegations of violations of human rights levied against members of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, especially members of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
3. The 28 States that set up these Panels were Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Katsina, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, and Taraba.
4. Out of the 28 States, 11 States (Abia, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Kwara, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Plateau, and Rivers) have submitted their final reports to Council; with Lagos, set to finalise its sittings on 19th October 2021, submitting an interim report. Governors of other States including Delta and Ebonyi at today’s meeting also indicated that their reports would be submitted soon.
5. Following deliberations on the recommendations of the panels, NEC agreed/resolved as follows, (and this applies to all the States and FCT that set up the panels):
PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION TO VICTIMS
6. Each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, shall establish modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the Panels. Already, as resolved by NEC, a number of States have set up Victims Compensation Funds, from which several victims have already received payments of sums awarded to them by the panels.
PROSECUTION OF INDICTED PERSONS (SECURITY PERSONNEL AND CIVILIANS)
7. Council directed State Governors to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
8. Where incidents in the reports relate to matters of discipline, in addition to prosecution, NEC urged the Nigeria Police Force to take disciplinary action on the affected officers in line with the provisions of the Police Act 2020.
IMPROVED EFFICIENCY OF NIGERIA POLICE FORCE AND OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES' ARCHITECTURE
9. NEC called on the leadership of the security agencies to ensure that –
a. Persons recruited into arms-bearing security agencies undergo psychiatric evaluations and drug tests before enlistment and periodically after enlistment to ensure that the personnel are psychologically fit to carry live weapons and to identify behavioural tendencies that may require psycho-social interventions.
b. Personnel of the agencies dutifully observes Rules of Engagement in the discharge of their functions/duties around and within the civilian populace.
c. While acknowledging the various initiatives introduced by the Federal Government to:
*strengthen police accountability through the Police Service Commission,
*sustain improved funding and budgetary allocation to the Nigeria Police Force and other securities agencies,
*and the lifting of the ban on recruitment of police officers,
Council urged the Federal Government to give priority to the general welfare of police officers and personnel of other security agencies.
In particular, it advocated the review of pension and gratuity of retired police officers and attainment of parity of remuneration by police officers with sister security agencies.
d. Undertake a comprehensive assessment of all police stations across the country with a view to ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
e. Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies should deploy cutting-edge technology in the fight against crimes.
f. Nigeria Police Force to, in line with the mandatory training provisions of the Police Act 2020, prioritize training of Police Officers on procedures for the entrenchment of Human Rights Provisions guaranteed by the Constitution and on the professional handling of weapons.
g. All those detained by the Police as a result of the EndSars protests are expeditiously processed with due regard to the principles of fair hearing.
h. The system established within the Nigeria Police Force for receipt and handling of complaints or petitions is strengthened, and all police officers on duty should be in police-approved uniform with their full names and force numbers boldly written for easy identification.
i. The States should, as resolved by NEC:
i)Properly utilize and support the community policing programme of the Federal Government, with active collaborative efforts and participation of traditional rulers, elders, youths, vigilante groups, etc.;
ii)Establish standing committees under States Ministries of Justice to address human rights violations on a continuous basis; and
iii)Take measures aimed at flushing out miscreants squatting in uncompleted buildings, and other blackout spots that serve as hideouts for criminals.
THE NATIONAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL ALSO ISSUED AN ADVISORY ON PUBLIC PROTESTS AT THIS TIME AS FOLLOWS:
While appreciating the role of lawful peaceful protests in the advancement of public discourse under democratic governance, the National Economic Council (NEC) strongly advises those planning public protests across the country to mark the anniversary of the #EndSARS, to consider other lawful alternative means of engagement.
This is because of the current security situation across the country and the possibility of such protests being hijacked by armed hoodlums and other opportunistic criminals to cause mayhem at such protest events and venues. Council, therefore, urges the organizers to reconsider their plan.
NEC would also like to point out the various actions already taken by Federal and State Governments to address the grievances that led to the 2020 protests, including:
* the disbandment of SARS;
*broad police reforms;
*establishment of judicial panels of inquiries to investigate allegations of human rights violations by members of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies;
* recommendations of which panels are already at various stages of implementation including the setup of Victims Compensation Funds from which several victims have received payments of sums awarded to them by the panels;
*and prosecution of police personnel indicted by the panels.
These are commendable actions that ought to be taken to a logical conclusion in a peaceful atmosphere.
Organizers of the planned protests should explore the various channels of communication with governments at various levels to advance their positions and avert the breakdown of law and order that may result from such public protests.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SOME OTHER ISSUES AT TODAY’S NEC MEETING
A.
PRESENTATION ON THE DRAFT NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2021-2025)
Council received a presentation and memo from the Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning on the draft of a National Development Plan 2021-2025, which is a successor plan to the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017-2020.
Among other highlights, the presentation and memo were to acquaint Council with the need for linkage between Annual Budget and Plans.
The plan also targets an average of 5% GDP growth, the creation of 21million jobs, and lifting 35million people out of poverty within the duration of the Plan.
What is new in this plan?
· A mechanism to engage, empower and employ our teaming energetic youths
· Inclusiveness - Opportunities for young people, women, vulnerable people, etc., via mainstreaming.
· A financing plan to increase revenue to 15 percent of GDP by 2025 and to decrease the budget deficit
Policy Action:
· Prioritization and implementation of critical and strategic infrastructure projects that will directly boost production and productivity
· Institutional reforms in public sector, law enforcement, judiciary, and secure property rights, including intellectual property.
· Measures to diversify revenue and increase tax to GDP ratio by improving tax administration, including the informal sector, and widening the tax base.
B.
PRESENTATION ON THE GRAZING RESERVE AUDIT COMMITTEE & SYNERGY WITH THE NLTP
NEC received a presentation from the Governor of Kebbi on behalf of the Grazing Reserve Audit Committee. The summary of the presentation was to brief NEC on the essence of the audit which is to document available land in order to aid the implementation of the 10year National Livestock Transformation Plan approved by NEC in 2019. The presentation clarified that the audit committee is not mandated to recover grazing reserves.
C.
PRESENTATION ON THE PROGRESS REPORT OF THE NEC AD-HOC COMMITTEE INTERFACING WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE (PTF) ON COVID-19 TO EASE THE LOCKDOWN OF THE ECONOMY
· Council received a progress report from the Chairman of the Committee, Delta State Governor on the above.
The Federal Ministry of Health is establishing oxygen plants across the 36 States in the country, but currently, 6 States have been provided with oxygen cylinders so far.
· The FG has paid for 40 million doses of Covid -19 vaccines coming in batches and therefore a considerable amount of the vaccines will come into the country between now and January 2022
· Nigeria is now classified among the 50 countries in the green zones
D.
STATE PERFORMANCE REPORT ON COVID -19 BY THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL, NATIONAL CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL
Council was informed as follows:
No of Cases =208,404
No of Cases tested =3,142,971
Active Cases =9,520,
Discharged Cases =196,123
Number of Deaths = 2,76
· Council was also informed on the global situation of Covid-19: over 237million confirmed cases and over 4.8million deaths due to Covid -19. There are now over 6.3billion vaccine doses administered
· Nigeria is still in the first wave of vaccination and vaccination tools will improve as the country receives additional vaccines
· Covid-19 cases have declined by 7.5% over the last week
· States are urged to continue to push testing activities in other to detect new cases before the situation worsens
· An update on travel restrictions on certain countries expected to be announced soon by the FG.
Council was also updated on the situation regarding the Cholera outbreak
Current Cholera situation in the country;
Suspected No of Cases =88,704
No. of States = 31t FCT
Number of Deaths = 3,208
· Multi-sectoral emergency operation centers activated at level 2 continues to coordinate the national response.
Challenges
· Difficulty in accessing some communities due to insecurity
· Open defecation
· Lack of portable drinking water
· Lack of basic health primary health care infrastructure
· Inadequate health facility and cholera commodities for case management.
Resolution
· Council commended the insightful presentations and congratulated the outgoing DG NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on his new appointment at the W.H.O and also welcomed the incoming DG, Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa.
E.
FINANCIAL UPDATES
The Honorable Minister of State for Budget and National Planning gave Council an update on the under listed accounts as follows:
1. EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT (ECA)
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER 2021 STANDS AT $60, 857,773.43
2. STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER, 2021 STANDS AT N 25,009,892,511.55
3. DEVELOPMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ACCOUNT
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER, 2021 STANDS AT N56,144,024,000.71
𝗟𝗮𝗼𝗹𝘂 𝗔𝗸𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲,
𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒏 𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒂 & 𝑷𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒕𝒚,
𝑶𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑽𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕.
15th October, 2021
For many that were arraigned in court, the Nigeria police has not been able to provide convincing evidence as to the cookup allegations leveled against them.
October 20 2020 was the real black day when the security operatives comprises of the police, the Nigerian Army and others on their cohort evil agenda opened fires on the peaceful protesters holding the Nigerian flags at Lekki toll gate in Lagos State.
With series of denial, panel of enquires were set up in 28 states and revelations were already in the public that Nigerian government through the security apparatus of the State killed her abled body youths for demanding for good governance and leadership from the Major General Muhammadu Buhari led Federal lawless regime.
As Memorial programs were lined up by the concerned Nigerian youths to mark the one year of the killing, the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo's led National Economic Council has confirmed the administration's failure again that the country is unsafe under this regime to guarantee the constitutional right to protest and therefore can't protect the protesters, if they choose to protest to mark the one year anniversary of those innocents killed last year by this incumbent regime.
To dose the tensions the Osinbajo led NEC have resolved that payment of compensation to victims should proceed with each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, establishing the modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the panels.
Equally, NEC, which is composed of all State Governors in the Federation and representatives of the FG, Chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also unanimously resolved today to ensure the prosecution of persons indicted by the panels. The Council specifically directed States "to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
However, let them scale through this month, you will hardly hear anything about the NEC resolutions again unless their is another crisis threatening their authorities.
The Boko Haram/ISWAP and other terrorists who killed, raped and abducted citizens and even security officers are already been pardoned and reintegrated back to the society by the pro-terrorists Buhari led Government.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
I am 'Dele Abiola
READ THEIR FULL PRESS STATEMENT BELOW:
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞
𝗡𝗘𝗖: 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦, 𝗙𝗚 𝗧𝗢 𝗣𝗔𝗬 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗢 𝗩𝗜𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗧𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗦𝗘𝗖𝗨𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗦𝗘 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗗
*Council also strongly advises against planned protests considering security situation
*Urges organisers to consider other options
In receipt of reports from judicial panels regarding EndSARS protests set up in 28 States across the country and in the FCT, the National Economic Council have resolved that payment of compensation to victims should proceed with each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, establishing the modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the panels.
Equally, NEC, which is composed of all State Governors in the Federation and representatives of the FG, Chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, also unanimously resolved today to ensure the prosecution of persons indicted by the panels. The Council specifically directed States "to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
"Where incidents in the reports relate to matters of discipline, in addition to prosecution, NEC urged the Nigeria Police Force to take disciplinary action on the affected officers in line with the provisions of the Police Act 2020."
Also rising from today's NEC meeting, members strongly advised those planning protests to mark the anniversary of the ENDSARS to reconsider the option in view of "current security situation across the country and the possibility of such protests being hijacked by armed hoodlums and other opportunistic criminals to cause mayhem at such protest events and venues."
Below are the NEC resolutions on the panels and an advisory on the planned protests:
NATIONAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS ON “ENDSARS” PANELS’ REPORTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY - 15TH OCTOBER 2021
At its meeting today, 15th October 2021, the National Economic Council (NEC/Council) received an update on the Reports of Judicial Panels of Inquiry into Allegations of Human Rights Violations against Members of Nigeria Police Force and other Security Agencies.
2. It may be recalled that following the October 2020 #EndSARS protests, which later transformed into violent demonstrations, in furtherance of resolution of NEC, twenty-eight (28) States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) (under the auspices of the National Human Rights Commission) had set up Judicial Panels/Commissions of Inquiry (Panels) to investigate allegations of violations of human rights levied against members of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, especially members of the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
3. The 28 States that set up these Panels were Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Imo, Kaduna, Katsina, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, and Taraba.
4. Out of the 28 States, 11 States (Abia, Ekiti, Enugu, Gombe, Kwara, Nasarawa, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Plateau, and Rivers) have submitted their final reports to Council; with Lagos, set to finalise its sittings on 19th October 2021, submitting an interim report. Governors of other States including Delta and Ebonyi at today’s meeting also indicated that their reports would be submitted soon.
5. Following deliberations on the recommendations of the panels, NEC agreed/resolved as follows, (and this applies to all the States and FCT that set up the panels):
PAYMENT OF COMPENSATION TO VICTIMS
6. Each State, in collaboration with the Federal Government, shall establish modalities for the settlement of all monetary compensations awarded by the Panels. Already, as resolved by NEC, a number of States have set up Victims Compensation Funds, from which several victims have already received payments of sums awarded to them by the panels.
PROSECUTION OF INDICTED PERSONS (SECURITY PERSONNEL AND CIVILIANS)
7. Council directed State Governors to immediately forward copies of final reports of the panels to their Attorneys-General for prompt arraignment and prosecution of all indicted persons.
8. Where incidents in the reports relate to matters of discipline, in addition to prosecution, NEC urged the Nigeria Police Force to take disciplinary action on the affected officers in line with the provisions of the Police Act 2020.
IMPROVED EFFICIENCY OF NIGERIA POLICE FORCE AND OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES' ARCHITECTURE
9. NEC called on the leadership of the security agencies to ensure that –
a. Persons recruited into arms-bearing security agencies undergo psychiatric evaluations and drug tests before enlistment and periodically after enlistment to ensure that the personnel are psychologically fit to carry live weapons and to identify behavioural tendencies that may require psycho-social interventions.
b. Personnel of the agencies dutifully observes Rules of Engagement in the discharge of their functions/duties around and within the civilian populace.
c. While acknowledging the various initiatives introduced by the Federal Government to:
*strengthen police accountability through the Police Service Commission,
*sustain improved funding and budgetary allocation to the Nigeria Police Force and other securities agencies,
*and the lifting of the ban on recruitment of police officers,
Council urged the Federal Government to give priority to the general welfare of police officers and personnel of other security agencies.
In particular, it advocated the review of pension and gratuity of retired police officers and attainment of parity of remuneration by police officers with sister security agencies.
d. Undertake a comprehensive assessment of all police stations across the country with a view to ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
e. Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies should deploy cutting-edge technology in the fight against crimes.
f. Nigeria Police Force to, in line with the mandatory training provisions of the Police Act 2020, prioritize training of Police Officers on procedures for the entrenchment of Human Rights Provisions guaranteed by the Constitution and on the professional handling of weapons.
g. All those detained by the Police as a result of the EndSars protests are expeditiously processed with due regard to the principles of fair hearing.
h. The system established within the Nigeria Police Force for receipt and handling of complaints or petitions is strengthened, and all police officers on duty should be in police-approved uniform with their full names and force numbers boldly written for easy identification.
i. The States should, as resolved by NEC:
i)Properly utilize and support the community policing programme of the Federal Government, with active collaborative efforts and participation of traditional rulers, elders, youths, vigilante groups, etc.;
ii)Establish standing committees under States Ministries of Justice to address human rights violations on a continuous basis; and
iii)Take measures aimed at flushing out miscreants squatting in uncompleted buildings, and other blackout spots that serve as hideouts for criminals.
THE NATIONAL ECONOMIC COUNCIL ALSO ISSUED AN ADVISORY ON PUBLIC PROTESTS AT THIS TIME AS FOLLOWS:
While appreciating the role of lawful peaceful protests in the advancement of public discourse under democratic governance, the National Economic Council (NEC) strongly advises those planning public protests across the country to mark the anniversary of the #EndSARS, to consider other lawful alternative means of engagement.
This is because of the current security situation across the country and the possibility of such protests being hijacked by armed hoodlums and other opportunistic criminals to cause mayhem at such protest events and venues. Council, therefore, urges the organizers to reconsider their plan.
NEC would also like to point out the various actions already taken by Federal and State Governments to address the grievances that led to the 2020 protests, including:
* the disbandment of SARS;
*broad police reforms;
*establishment of judicial panels of inquiries to investigate allegations of human rights violations by members of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies;
* recommendations of which panels are already at various stages of implementation including the setup of Victims Compensation Funds from which several victims have received payments of sums awarded to them by the panels;
*and prosecution of police personnel indicted by the panels.
These are commendable actions that ought to be taken to a logical conclusion in a peaceful atmosphere.
Organizers of the planned protests should explore the various channels of communication with governments at various levels to advance their positions and avert the breakdown of law and order that may result from such public protests.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SOME OTHER ISSUES AT TODAY’S NEC MEETING
A.
PRESENTATION ON THE DRAFT NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2021-2025)
Council received a presentation and memo from the Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning on the draft of a National Development Plan 2021-2025, which is a successor plan to the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017-2020.
Among other highlights, the presentation and memo were to acquaint Council with the need for linkage between Annual Budget and Plans.
The plan also targets an average of 5% GDP growth, the creation of 21million jobs, and lifting 35million people out of poverty within the duration of the Plan.
What is new in this plan?
· A mechanism to engage, empower and employ our teaming energetic youths
· Inclusiveness - Opportunities for young people, women, vulnerable people, etc., via mainstreaming.
· A financing plan to increase revenue to 15 percent of GDP by 2025 and to decrease the budget deficit
Policy Action:
· Prioritization and implementation of critical and strategic infrastructure projects that will directly boost production and productivity
· Institutional reforms in public sector, law enforcement, judiciary, and secure property rights, including intellectual property.
· Measures to diversify revenue and increase tax to GDP ratio by improving tax administration, including the informal sector, and widening the tax base.
B.
PRESENTATION ON THE GRAZING RESERVE AUDIT COMMITTEE & SYNERGY WITH THE NLTP
NEC received a presentation from the Governor of Kebbi on behalf of the Grazing Reserve Audit Committee. The summary of the presentation was to brief NEC on the essence of the audit which is to document available land in order to aid the implementation of the 10year National Livestock Transformation Plan approved by NEC in 2019. The presentation clarified that the audit committee is not mandated to recover grazing reserves.
C.
PRESENTATION ON THE PROGRESS REPORT OF THE NEC AD-HOC COMMITTEE INTERFACING WITH THE PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE (PTF) ON COVID-19 TO EASE THE LOCKDOWN OF THE ECONOMY
· Council received a progress report from the Chairman of the Committee, Delta State Governor on the above.
The Federal Ministry of Health is establishing oxygen plants across the 36 States in the country, but currently, 6 States have been provided with oxygen cylinders so far.
· The FG has paid for 40 million doses of Covid -19 vaccines coming in batches and therefore a considerable amount of the vaccines will come into the country between now and January 2022
· Nigeria is now classified among the 50 countries in the green zones
D.
STATE PERFORMANCE REPORT ON COVID -19 BY THE DIRECTOR-GENERAL, NATIONAL CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL
Council was informed as follows:
No of Cases =208,404
No of Cases tested =3,142,971
Active Cases =9,520,
Discharged Cases =196,123
Number of Deaths = 2,76
· Council was also informed on the global situation of Covid-19: over 237million confirmed cases and over 4.8million deaths due to Covid -19. There are now over 6.3billion vaccine doses administered
· Nigeria is still in the first wave of vaccination and vaccination tools will improve as the country receives additional vaccines
· Covid-19 cases have declined by 7.5% over the last week
· States are urged to continue to push testing activities in other to detect new cases before the situation worsens
· An update on travel restrictions on certain countries expected to be announced soon by the FG.
Council was also updated on the situation regarding the Cholera outbreak
Current Cholera situation in the country;
Suspected No of Cases =88,704
No. of States = 31t FCT
Number of Deaths = 3,208
· Multi-sectoral emergency operation centers activated at level 2 continues to coordinate the national response.
Challenges
· Difficulty in accessing some communities due to insecurity
· Open defecation
· Lack of portable drinking water
· Lack of basic health primary health care infrastructure
· Inadequate health facility and cholera commodities for case management.
Resolution
· Council commended the insightful presentations and congratulated the outgoing DG NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu on his new appointment at the W.H.O and also welcomed the incoming DG, Dr. Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa.
E.
FINANCIAL UPDATES
The Honorable Minister of State for Budget and National Planning gave Council an update on the under listed accounts as follows:
1. EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT (ECA)
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER 2021 STANDS AT $60, 857,773.43
2. STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER, 2021 STANDS AT N 25,009,892,511.55
3. DEVELOPMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ACCOUNT
BALANCE AS AT 13TH OCTOBER, 2021 STANDS AT N56,144,024,000.71
𝗟𝗮𝗼𝗹𝘂 𝗔𝗸𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲,
𝑺𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝑺𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒏 𝑴𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒂 & 𝑷𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒕𝒚,
𝑶𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑽𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕.
15th October, 2021
