Amnesty International has welcomed the ruling of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which ordered the Nigerian government to conduct a fresh investigation into rights violations during the October 2020 #EndSARS protests.
The Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, emphasized the organization’s commitment to upholding human rights standards and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.
The ECOWAS Court’s judgment, delivered in response to the case brought by Catherine Udeh & Ors, highlighted violations including the right to liberty and security, freedom of expression and association, freedom of assembly, and the right to effective remedy. Amnesty International, acting as a friend of the court, made submissions asserting that lethal force against peaceful protesters, unlawful dispersal of assemblies, and the need for effective remedies for victims were key issues.
The #EndSARS protests, which spread across Nigeria in October 2020, saw significant demonstrations against police brutality, notably at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State where security forces allegedly fired on peaceful protesters. The ECOWAS Court’s decision specifically found that Nigeria violated the rights of Obianuju Catherine Udeh, Perpetual Kamsi, and Dabiraoluwa Adeyinka during these protests.
The ruling underscores the importance of accountability and justice in addressing human rights violations, particularly concerning peaceful assembly and the use of force by security agencies. Amnesty International continues to advocate for the protection and promotion of human rights in Nigeria and globally.
