In what appeared as government’s fightback against the ongoing #ENDSARS protests, hoodlums attacked the protesters in Abuja on Wednesday.
Also, a group opposed to the protests marched in support of the Police on the same day, warning that the protests could have counter-productive consequences.
The attack on the protesters led to a confusion in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja as #ENDSARS protesters were by those who are opposed to the protests.
The attack took place at the Julius Berger roundabout, Wuse, where the protesters had gathered, blocking the road with disused tyres and stones. As the #ENDSARS protesters have done in Lagos and other places, they prevented motorists from using the road, as they had occupied the bridge.
Suddenly, their attackers emerged and unleashed terror on them, and vandalized vehicles.
On Tuesday, soldiers attacked protesters in Abuja also, around the Three Arms Zone, leading also to many people being injured.
“The Inspector General of Police (IGP) in display of his 21st century Police officer’s compliance, highest level of professionalism and best regards for Democracy yielded to the call and disbanded the SARS, surprisingly, the protesters still continue with their trade of protest.
The convener of the pro-Police demonstrators, Olayemi Success, argued that the advantages of SARS in curbing crime in Nigeria overwhelmingly outweigh their “few mistakes, therefore such protests can be highly demoralizing.”
“In view of the above, this solidarity march is very important to boost the morale of the police men and women, for them to know that well -meaning Nigerians appreciate their sacrifices in securing Nigeria, we are convinced that Police is our friend and everyone that sees police as enemies are suspects.
“Let us use this opportunity to commend the world best Inspector General of Police for creating SPECIAL WEAPONS AND TACTICS TEAM (SWATT), which we believe will discharge all the responsibilities of the disbanded SARS more professionally and effectively, also, it is very important to call on the National Assembly to approve more funding for Nigeria Police force for adequate security,” Success said.
