HOW Deadly Thugs With Powerful Guns Attacked Peaceful Protesters In Abuja
In 2020, the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria gained global attention as citizens rallied against police brutality, particularly by the Special Anti- Robbery Squad (SARS). On October 14, 2020, a tragic event occurred in Abuja, the nation’s capital, when armed thugs attacked peaceful protesters at the Berger roundabout.
The protesters, who had gathered as early as 8 am, started their day with prayers according to their various faiths. They were unarmed and peacefully demonstrating when the attackers descended upon them. The thugs, wielding machetes and sticks, caused chaos, injuring several protesters and damaging their vehicles. They also attacked other motorists in the area, spreading fear and panic.
The sudden violence led to the temporary suspension of the protest as people, including passersby and traders, scrambled to safety. The atmosphere turned chaotic as the peaceful protest was disrupted by the unexpected attack. The incident highlighted the dangers that peaceful protesters faced during the #EndSARS movement.
Bala Ciroma, the then-Commissioner. of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), addressed the media following the attack. He confirmed that no arrests had been made at that time and that five vehicles were destroyed in the incident.
Ciroma explained that the police had deployed officers to maintain law and order, but the situation escalated quickly when opposing groups clashed. He noted that the timely intervention of the police prevented further deterioration of the situation.
Ciroma assured the public that an investigation was underway to determine the exact circumstances of the attack. He emphasized the need for calm and urged citizens to allow peace to return so that economic activities could resume. His statement reflected the authorities’ desire to restore order and ensure the safety of all residents in Abuja.
The attack on the #EndSARS protesters at Berger roundabout was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those advocating for change in Nigeria. Despite the violence and intimidation, the #EndSARS movement continued to inspire many Nigerians to stand up against injustice and demand better governance. The resilience and determination of the protesters became a symbol of hope and resistance in the face of adversity.
Source
Scooper