Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and renowned human rights lawyer, accused the Nigerian government led by the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating violence against the historic #EndSARS protesters in 2020.
Speaking on Channel TV on Tuesday evening, Mr. Falana emphasized the need for the government to avoid similar tactics as the country braces for another wave of protests in August.
“The violence that characterized the end of the #EndSARS protest was instigated, fueled, and sponsored by the government,” Mr. Falana declared. “The government decided to unleash hoodlums and thugs on the young people. When that did not work, the government sent troops and soldiers to engage in the killing of young people.”
Mr. Falana urged the government to engage constructively with the leaders of the upcoming protests rather than resorting to violence. “This time around, the government should try to identify the leaders of the movement and then engage them. There are demands that are being made, and the government should address these demands,” he said.
The senior lawyer’s remarks come amid escalating tensions as Nigerians prepare for nationwide demonstrations in August. The protests are driven by economic hardships exacerbated by soaring food prices and the rising cost of living. Mr. Falana advised the 36 state governors to transparently disclose their strategies to alleviate citizens’ suffering.
“Between now and the first of August is still a long way, and I understand the government is going to address the nation. It is also important for governors to really come out and let the people know what they are doing to address hardship in the country, which nobody is denying,” he stated.
The issue of surging food prices has intensified scrutiny of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies both domestically and internationally. As Nigerians await the government’s response, the call for accountability and effective measures to address economic challenges grows louder.
