The Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has drummed support for peaceful protests against police brutality especially by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The #EndSARS protest which has gone global seeks the disbandment of the police unit over incessant cases of extra-judicial killings, extortion and harassment of citizens.
Protests have taken place in Lagos, Abuja and other major cities.
Nigerian singers, actors, politicians and other prominent individuals have joined the campaign both on the streets and the social media space.
Mr Bello, in his message to Nigerian youth on Saturday, described seeking an end to SARS brutality as a worthy cause that must be supported by all.
“Seeking an end to the brutal conduct against citizens by FSARS, other police units and the personnel of all security agencies is a worthy cause that must be supported by all,” the governor said.
He implored youth against violent confrontations with the police under any form or guise, whether during these protests or in any other circumstance.
“Taking the law into your hands is unwise, dangerous to the perpetrators and counter-productive to all desired outcomes. We will continue to work toward a new direction in the affairs of Nigeria in which all citizens can maximise the benefits of nationhood, including freedom from arbitrariness by agents of government,” he said.
He said, as governor and chief security officer of Kogi State, he had had cause in the past to order the arrest and prosecution of security officers whose misconduct and brutality led to injury and/or death of innocent citizens in the state.
– Premium Times
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