United States Congresswoman Barbara Lee has joined US-based Nigerian artist, peace activist, and entrepreneur Prince Ayo Ajisebutu and the global community to observe a candlelight vigil for the lives lost during the October 20 incident involving security operatives and #EndSARS protesters.
The #EndSARS movement called for the dismantling of the state police unit known as the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and has expanded to broader calls for government reform and an end to police brutality.
“The activists and heroes who gave their lives in an effort to end police violence and to bring a more peaceful inclusive Nigeria are not only important to Nigerians in Nigeria, but important to me personally and the Nigerians in my community and to everyone in my congressional district and throughout the country,” said Lee.
“The United States Congress is paying attention and we stand with you,” Lee added.
“I’ve joined with my colleagues to call on the president to acknowledge the demands of the Nigerian people to stop the violence and to lead real investigations into police brutality. We’ve also urged both the United Nations and the United States Department of State to support the efforts of the Nigerian people to demand justice, accountability, and an end to violence from their government.”
Lee encouraged Nigerians in America to call their Congressional representatives to urge them to co-sponsor “H. Res. 1216” (11/24/2020 House Resolution 1216) which condemns the use of excessive force by Nigerian security forces, calls for an investigation into the October 20 Lekki toll gate incident in Lagos and other violations of human rights, and supports the demands of the #EndSARS movement for justice, accountability, and meaningful police reform. The resolution was introduced on November 12 by Congressman Al Green (D) of Texas.
The global vigil event was promoted by Blend Forward an organisation founded by Prince Ajisebutu to promote peaceful actions that unite people for the good of all. Blend Forward called on Nigerian youths to wear a blue ribbon and and fly blue flags in remembrance of those who have died at the hands of police and soldiers.
“There’s a dark cloud over Nigeria and only love can cast it away,” Ajisebutu said.
