Lekki Shotings: Gov Sanwo invited troops – Army opens up
Following uproars emanating from the shooting of #EndSARS protesters at trendy toll gate, and several ‘denial of responsibility,’ subsequently; the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lagos, said that its troops were invited by the State government to enforce the curfew imposed on the State.
This is coming barely hours a judicial panel was inaugurated in the State, to investigation the shootings; and to ensure justice is done on behalf of the victims of police brutality who sadly lost their lives
In a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Maj. Osoba Olaniyi; made available to Obinwannem News on Wednesday, Olaniyi stated that the troops were requested to restore law and order 24 hours after the curfew was declared.
The army spokesman said: “The attention of Headquarters 81 Division Nigerian Army has been drawn to a viral video on social media in which it was alleged that civilian protesters were massacred by soldiers at Lekki toll plaza.
“This allegation is untrue, unfounded and aimed at causing anarchy in the country. At no time did soldiers of the Nigerian Army open fire on any civilian.
“From the onset of the #EndSARS protest, there was no time personnel of 81 Division Nigerian Army , Lagos, were involved.
“However, the decision to call in the military was taken by the Lagos State government after a 24 hours curfew was imposed.
“This was as a result of the violence which led to several police stations being burnt, policemen killed, suspects in police custody released and weapons carted away.
“The situation was fast degenerating into anarchy. It was at this point that Lagos State government requested for the military to intervene in order to restore normalcy.
“The intervention of the military followed all laid down procedures for internal security operations and all the soldiers involved acted within the confines of the Rules of Engagement for Internal Security operations.”
Nwada Ugochinyere Onyechere reporting, Obinwannem News
