#endSARS: US condemns killings, says trigger happy soldiers must be held accountable
Says restrain, respect for fundamental rights key for demonstrators to remain peaceful
Admin l Thursday, October 22, 2020
WASHINGTON – The United States of American has condemned in strong terms the use of excessive force by the Nigeria Army who opened fire on unarmed demonstrators under #endSARS movement at the Lekki Tollgate and other places.
Not less than 10 people were killed when the military opened fire on the #endSARS protest calling for reform in the Nigeria Police and an end to bad governance at the Lekki Tollgate.
In a statement, Secretary of State, Mr. Michael Pompeo called on the Nigerian government to launch immediate investigation into the excessive use of force by the military, stressing that those involved in the shooting should be held accountable in accordance with the Nigerian law.
“The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are essential human rights and core democratic principles”, Pompeo said and called on the security services to show maximum restraint and respect fundamental rights and for demonstrators to remain peaceful.
“ We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families”, he said in statement.
“The United States strongly condemns the use of excessive force by military forces who fired on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos, causing death and injury.
Read also, COMMONWEALTH CALLS FOR TRIAL OF KILLER SOLDIERS IN ENDSARS PROTESTERS
“We welcome an immediate investigation into any use of excessive force by members of the security forces. Those involved should be held to account in accordance with Nigerian law.
“The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are essential human rights and core democratic principles.
“We call on the security services to show maximum restraint and respect fundamental rights and for demonstrators to remain peaceful. We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families”.
