The United States government has finally responded to the alleged Lekki toll gate killings, calling for immediate investigation into the shootings by the Nigerian military on #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki Toll gate on Tuesday night, October 20.
WITHIN NIGERIA recalls that Tuesday evening, some security operatives attacked unarmed peaceful #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki toll gate, Lagos, killing some numbers, and injuring some.
In a statement on Thursday, October 22, the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo strongly condemned the use of excessive force by security agents against unarmed protesters in the country and said an immediate investigation will begin.
“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,” Mr Pompeo tweeted.
“The United States strongly condemns the use of excessive force by military forces who fired on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos, causing death and injury.
He noted that peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are “essential human rights and core democratic principles” that should be respected by authorities.
“We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families.
“We welcome an immediate investigation into any use of excessive force by members of the security forces,” he added.
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