….. Says Government Must Avoid Violent Resistance
By Dayo Omoogun
The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has expressed “solidarity with the courageous young people of this country who have been peacefully protesting police brutality, impunity and injustice, in cities across Nigeria.”
This is contained in a statement signed by its Archbishop, Revd. Dr. Henry C.Ndukuba made available to the media on Monday.
The Church while commending the Government for disbanding the squad urges a thorough investigation of its alleged atrocities and a quick dispensation of justice to ensure that the culprits are duly punished.
“The undeniable tales of untold brutality and atrocities allegedly committed by this particular Unit of the Nigeria Police Force which has come to light, must be thoroughly investigated and the culprits made to face the due process of law which they callously denied their hapless victims.
“The Church cannot be silent in the midst of such credible reports of widespread abuse of power and oppression of citizens, especially by those empowered by the State to protect citizens’ rights, lives and property.
The Church counselled against a hasty replacement of the squad by another one without ensuring proper closure of the issues.
“While commending its prompt action in disbanding the SARS unit, Government must resist the temptation to immediately replace SARS with another unit by whatever name, without first fully assimilating the demands on behalf of countless victims of police brutality and addressing the issues of gross abuse of power and privilege, violation of human rights, and the consequent youth frustration and anger highlighted through the ongoing #EndSARS EndSWAT protests.
The Communion also lent its voice to the calls for improved working conditions for police personnel and called on the government to embrace the demand for the enthronement of the rule of law which the protesters are clamouring for.
“Government must urgently address the neglect and abject conditions of service of the Nigeria Police Force as a whole through immediate and holistic reforms.
“As a Church and as Nigerian citizens of all faiths, we have a responsibility to help reshape our country. The #EndSARS cry against those who perpetuate and perpetrate injustice by spilling innocent blood in our land is a passionate appeal for the enforcement of the rule of law that the Government should embrace.
Reverend Ndukuba prayed for wisdom for our political leaders at all levels to explore peaceful and non-violent means to contain the crisis and bring an end to impunity and injustice in all its forms and ramifications in Nigeria.
He also prayed for the protesters to remain peaceful and law-abiding.