Sanwoolu asks police commissioner to investigate claims of harassment at Lekki Toll Gate

GOVERNOR Babajide Sanwoolu has asked the Lagos State police commissioner Hakeem Odumosu to institute an investigation into the harassment of protesters at the Lekki Toll gate Plaza over the weekend.

Protests resumed at Lekki this weekend as youths decided to resume their #EndsSARS demonstrations at the location were several of their members were shot by the Nigerian Army last year. Bringing about a brutal end to their protests, soldiers opened fire on the unarmed protesters who were demonstrating against police brutality and calling for a dissolution of the Special Anti Robbery Squad (Sars) police unit.

Last week, tension rose in Lagos State as the youths pledged to return to protest but the federal government vowed not to tolerate any fresh gathering. In defiance of the government, the protesters gathered to demonstrate but the police were quickly despatched and they carried out numerous arrests.

Amid concerns that the police used heavy-handed tactics on the unarmed youths, Governor Sanwoolu has asked for an immediate investigation. Gbenga Omotosho, the Lagos State information commissioner, said the governor has directed police commissioner to begin an investigation into the molestation of some protesters with a view to prosecute and punish any officer found culpable.

He added that the incident has embarrassed the state government and would not be condoned. Mr Omotosho recalled that Governor Sanwoolu backed the #EndSARS protest and went to Abuja to deliver the protesters demands to Mr President.

Lekki Concession Company (LCC), boss Yomi Omomuwasan, said that the firm has lost a rough estimate of over N2.5bn to the damages experienced between October 20, 2021 and February 13, 2021. He added that LCC which runs the toll gate, has obligations to be met, hence, needed to get back to work.