#EndSARS: Nigerian Court Adjourns Case of 22 Brutality Victims Till May 28
Lagos, Nigeria – The Federal High Court in Ikoyi has adjourned the case of 22 victims of police brutality to May 28, 2025, after key defendants—including the Nigeria Police Force and Lagos State authorities—failed to appear in court.
Victims Recount Horrors of Lekki Toll Gate Arrest
One victim, speaking to journalists, described the violent crackdown they endured during a peaceful #EndSARS memorial protest at Lekki Toll Gate on October 20, 2024:
“We were 22 in total—beaten black and blue simply because we dared to gather at Lekki Toll Gate, the same site where Nigerian youths were massacred five years ago for protesting police brutality.”
The victims, arrested and detained for hours, allege they were stripped naked, sexually harassed, and tortured by officers.
“After that incident, we decided ‘enough is enough.’ Nigerians can no longer tolerate police brutality and the suppression of our right to protest,” the victim added.
Legal Battle for Justice
The lawsuit, filed against:
✔ Inspector General of Police
✔ Lagos State Commissioner of Police
✔ CSP Adetayo Akerele (Lagos Task Force Chairman)
✔ Lagos State Governor
✔ Attorney General of Lagos State
argues that the victims’ fundamental rights—including dignity, liberty, and freedom of assembly (under Sections 34, 35, 40, and 41 of Nigeria’s Constitution)—were violated.
#EndBadGovernance Movement Rallies in Solidarity
On Monday, March 24, the #EndBadGovernance Movement staged a protest at the Ikoyi court, demanding:
Justice for the 22 victims
Accountability for police brutality
An end to repression of protests
The group condemned the October 2024 Lekki arrests as a repeat of the infamous 2020 #EndSARS massacre, where soldiers opened fire on unarmed protesters.
Why This Case Matters
- Test for Police Reform: Five years after #EndSARS, victims still fight for justice.
- Freedom of Assembly at Stake: Authorities continue suppressing dissent.
- Legal Precedent: A ruling could strengthen accountability for rights abuses.
Next Steps
The court has given respondents till May 28, 2025, to appear. If they fail again, plaintiffs may seek default judgments.
