#EndSARS: AU Lauds FG, Calls For Lasting Reforms

In view of the ongoing EndSARS protests, the African Union (AU) has lauded the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigeria Police Force, describing it as a step in the right direction.

This was contained in a statement (dated October 21) by the Spokesperson to the Chairperson, African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Ebba Kalondo.

Mahamat urged the federal government to ensure that lasting reforms were implemented in line with the demands of the Nigerian people.

Furthermore, he condoled with victims of the respective attacks associated with the protests.

“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Faki Mahamat strongly condemns the violence that erupted on 20 October 2020 during protests in Lagos, Nigeria that has resulted in multiple deaths and injuries.

“The Chairperson offers his sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured.

“In this regard, the Chairperson welcomes the decision by the federal government to disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) as an important step in this direction,” the statement partly read.

Also, he said that dialogue was a pathway to peace and progress.

“The Chairperson appeals to all political and social actors to reject the use of violence and respect human rights and the rule of law. He further urges all parties to privilege dialogue in order to de-escalate the situation and find concrete and durable reforms.

“The Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s commitment to continue to accompany the government and people of Nigeria in support of a peaceful solution, and encourages the Nigerian authorities to conduct an investigation to ensure the perpetrators of acts of violence are held to account,” he added.