#EndSARS: US condemns Lekki shooting, calls for immediate probe

The United States has strongly condemned the shooting of EndSARS protesters by soldiers in Lekki, Lagos. Scores of people were allegedly killed on Tuesday evening when security agents in military camouflage opened fire on the protesters. But the Nigerian Army denied that its officials shot at the protesters. US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, in […]

The United States has strongly condemned the shooting of EndSARS protesters by soldiers in Lekki, Lagos.

Scores of people were allegedly killed on Tuesday evening when security agents in military camouflage opened fire on the protesters.

But the Nigerian Army denied that its officials shot at the protesters.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, in a statement on Thursday, called for immediate investigation and those involved should be prosecuted according to the law.

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While urging the Nigerian security forces to show maximum restraint, he sympathised with the victims and their families.

The statement said: “The United States strongly condemns the use of excessive force by military forces who fired on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos, causing death and injury.

“We welcome an immediate investigation into any use of excessive force by members of the security forces.

“Those involved should be held to account in accordance with Nigerian law.

The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are essential human rights and core democratic principles.

“We call on the security services to show maximum restraint and respect fundamental rights and for demonstrators to remain peaceful.

“We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families.”