Civil societies fume over attack on EndSARS protesters in Osogbo

By Ekene Agbor, Osogbo

Osun Civil Society Coalition, an umbrella body of pressure groups in Osun State has condemned the attack on EndSARS protesters by hoodlums on Thursday in Osogbo.

Some hoodlums, while armed with dangerous weapons, distruped the protest against police brutality and chased the agitators away.

Reacting through a statement signed by the chairman of the Coalition, Comrade Waheed Lawal, a copy of which was made available to News Boom, the groups described the attack as provoking and unwarranted assault on rights of the people.

Declaring support for the nationwide demonstration against Police brutality, the coalition disclosed that it would storm the streets of Osogbo tomorrow to identify with the ENDSARS agitations.

The coalition said, “We consider the attack on the protesters as provoking, unwarranted and a direct assault on human rights of the people, which is not only reprehensible but criminal.

“While we cannot shy away from the fact that the conducts of some of the protesters are questionable and unexpected of ideologically guided persons, we cannot as well close our eyes to the senseless attack on the genuine EndSARS protesters.

“We are in total support of the EndSARS protests and the demands for total reform of the Nigerian Police Force, civilise policing, intelligent-driven operations and compensation for the victims of the police’s brutality. The agitation is a genuine one that should enjoy the support of well-meaning Nigerians.

“However, it is our belief that a protest that lacks coordination, direction and human face is no doubt lacking in merit.

“In forging ahead with the EndSARS protest and demand for an end to police brutality, extortion and extra judicial killings, members of the Osun Civil Societies Coalition will tomorrow, Friday, October 16, 2020 troop out to continue the agitation. The convergence venue is Ayetoro by 7AM.”