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| A popularly know thug who is still free as we speak |
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he End SARS protests were a significant movement in Nigeria, drawing attention to police brutality and demanding reform. However, the narrative surrounding the protests has been distorted by some, particularly supporters of the APC, who claim that the protests were orchestrated by Igbos and people who hate Lagos. This claim is not only false but also harmful, as it attempts to shift the blame for the chaos that ensued onto a specific ethnic group.
I was part of the peaceful protests at Lekki Toll Gate, which were characterized by a carnival-like atmosphere. Music was shared, and different artists performed daily. It was a time of unity and peaceful demonstration, with people gathering every morning and dispersing in the evening. The protests remained peaceful until thugs began infiltrating the gatherings.
The question arises: were these thugs Igbos? No. The narrative that Igbos were responsible for the looting and destruction during the End SARS protests is misleading and unfounded. I can attest that the City Mall near my house was looted by thugs and locals from the area, who are still present today. A friend living among these locals confirmed that the police later apprehended a few individuals and recovered some looted goods. Ironically, many of the looted shops belonged to Igbos. Just days after the looting, an agbero offered to sell my gate man a TV, clearly one of the stolen items. He told me, and I advised him to be careful.
Most of the thug attacks were allegedly government-sponsored to discredit the protesters. A popular thug known as Adamo Osha was seen in photos circulating widely. Why has the police not arrested him? He has been seen with politicians, and some government jeeps were also seen dropping off thugs. It is evident that the government wanted the protests to end and resorted to very cunning moves. When that didn’t work, they resorted to shooting at the toll gate.
Journalist Oseni Rufai pointed out on X: "A country wey get arrange bishop must also get arrange protesters...meaning if APC can arrange fake bishop...what will it take them to get fake protester...we have seen them pay protester hired in the past” (@ruffydfire). This statement further highlights the possibility of orchestrated efforts to undermine the protests.
It is mischievous and sad to perpetuate the lie that Igbos wanted to destroy Lagos. People will naturally misbehave if not controlled, which is why proactive policing is essential. I agree with the police's stance on identifying protest leaders to ensure safety and order. The police should provide security for the protesters and allow the protests to end daily by 4 PM or 6 PM. Any activities beyond this time could be attributed to thugs planning to loot.
We must stop victimizing the Igbos and recognize that they are an integral part of Nigeria. Blaming them for the unrest during the End SARS protests is unfair and unjust. It's crucial to focus on the real issues and ensure that peaceful protests can occur without being hijacked by criminal elements. The police must play their part in maintaining order, and society must reject divisive narratives that target specific groups unfairly.
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