Lagos, Nigeria – Attendees at a solemn memorial event marking the sixth anniversary of the 2020 #EndSARS protest shootings were forcefully dispersed with tear gas by police on Tuesday at the iconic Lekki Toll Gate. Among those directly affected by the chemical agent were prominent Lagos State governorship candidates, Rhodes-Vivour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Funso Doherty of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
Eyewitness accounts and a widely circulated video show law enforcement officers firing tear gas canisters into the crowd. The forceful dispersal aimed to break up the gathering, which had assembled peacefully to lay wreaths and remember victims of the tragic October 2020 events.
The memorial, organized by the human rights advocacy group Enough Is Enough Movement, sought to honor those who lost their lives or were injured during the peaceful youth-led protests against police brutality and bad governance, which culminated in the controversial shootings at the toll gate six years ago. Participants had gathered to reflect on the events and reiterate calls for justice and accountability.
The presence of Rhodes-Vivour and Doherty underscored the continued public and political interest in the #EndSARS movement’s legacy. Both candidates had joined the procession to pay their respects and stand in solidarity with the families of victims, before being caught in the police’s dispersal operation. Their involvement highlights the enduring sensitivity and unresolved issues surrounding the 2020 protests.