The Lagos State Police Command has reacted to speculations of bullets being fired at protesters participating in the second anniversary of the ENDSARS protest at the Lekki Tollgate, Lagos.
Recall that Nigerian celebrities including singer Falz and comedian Mr. Macaroni staged a memorial walk at the tollgate earlier today to mark the second anniversary of the alleged killing of several protesting Nigerians.
Subsequently, police officers reportedly shot tear gas canisters and water canons at the protesters, with some people alleging that bullets were also shot.
Reacting to the speculations, the spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, refuted the reports that guns were fired at Nigerians marking the anniversary.
Hundeyin who tweeted his reaction said that “Tear gas canisters were fired because some of the Nigerians staging the memorial walk decided to be lawless and started mounting the toll complex, adding that it was an action that threatened the existing law and order in the area and so teargas canisters were fired to disperse them.”
According to Hundeyin, “peaceful person’s were allowed to move around without interference from the police. Some of them that decided to be lawless and started mounting the toll complex, an action threatening the existence of law and order in the area, we dispersed with tear gas ”
Further, he added that there were no use of baton, neither was there physical contact. “We equally do not have any record of shooting. We would, however, appreciate evidence of gunshots, maybe a video, to enable us take appropriate action.”
He concluded his reaction thus “A stitch in time saves nine. They were already gathering at the tollgate as opposed to doing a peaceful procession. Minimal force was used. No injury or fatality.”
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