Prominent international figures have voiced their shock and support in response to the violent attacks on peaceful #EndSARS demonstrators in Lagos and other regions of Nigeria.
High-profile celebrities, such as hip-hop artists Beyoncé, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, ChanceTheRapper, footballer Rio Ferdinand, and Nigerian-American artist Jidenna, have used platforms like Twitter and Instagram to denounce the brutal shootings of #EndSARS protesters at Lekki Toll Plaza in Lagos by security forces.
Current Situation
Over the past day, the #EndSARS movement in Lagos has grown more intense as protesters, frustrated by unaddressed demands, continued their demonstrations into the night, defying a curfew set by the government.
Background
In the last 12 hours, social media has been flooded with harrowing footage and accounts showing security forces firing live ammunition at non-violent #EndSARS protesters at Lekki Toll Plaza. This has prompted widespread outrage from Nigerians both locally and abroad, as well as from global figures like former U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden.
Their Statements
Beyoncé expressed deep sorrow over the “heart-wrenching violence” in Nigeria, demanding an end to SARS. She announced partnerships with organizations to provide medical care, food, and shelter for those protesting for change.
Rihanna called the attacks a “profound betrayal,” noting that the authorities meant to ensure safety are instead instilling fear in Nigerians.
Nicki Minaj labeled the violence against protesters as “cruel and unacceptable,” while ChanceTheRapper urged the international community to support the #EndSARS cause, describing the shootings as a massacre of young Nigerians.
Jidenna appealed to the African diaspora to raise awareness about the #EndSARS movement, emphasizing the urgent need to stand with Nigerians in music, sports, workplaces, and other communities.
Key Information
The Nigerian Army has denied any role in the shootings at Lekki Toll Plaza, despite video evidence suggesting otherwise. President Buhari has not made a public statement on the #EndSARS protests since announcing the dissolution of the SARS unit on October 12, 2020.
