Fatalities reported following clashes during protests in Lagos October 20
Category: Transportation
Severity: 4 (High)
Source: Drum Cussac
10/21/2020 (Nigeria) - At least two people have been killed in clashes between protesters and security forces during #EndSARS protests in Lagos on Tuesday, October 20. According to media reports, soldiers opened fire at approximately 19:00 (local time) on protesters in the Lekki district who were protesting against police brutality, despite a curfew in place. It is currently unclear how many others have been injured at this time or if there are more fatalities. Lagos state government announced that an investigation into the shooting has been opened.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu imposed an indefinite 24-hour curfew across the state from 16:00 on Tuesday, October 20. All those in Lagos are required to remain at their residences throughout the duration of the curfew, with only essential service workers being exempt from the restrictions.
Further travel and business disruptions are likely in Lagos and other towns and cities throughout Nigeria in the near term, with violent unrest remaining likely in flashpoint areas.
Context
A series of protests organized by the #EndSARS social media campaign have been held across Nigeria over the past few months and have intensified in recent days, with demonstrations having led to several fatal clashes between protesters and security forces. Unrest has continued despite an announcement by President Muhammadu Buhari that the controversial SARS police unit would be disbanded and replaced by a new agency called SWAT, a move which protesters have rejected.
Those in Lagos are advised to monitor the situation, adjust travel itineraries and avoid unnecessary overland movement in the immediate term, avoid the vicinity of any demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
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