#ENDSARS: Over 1000 police brutality cases filed across Nigeria

Over one thousand cases of police brutality have been filed across Nigeria, as states continue proceedings at the judicial panels which came about as a fallout of the #ENDSARS protests. The cases shed light on the longstanding issue of human rights violations and use of excessive force by the Nigerian military and police forces. Evans Ufeli, a Constitutional Lawyer and Rights Advocate, and Victor Aluyi, Head of Portfolio Management at Comercio Partners, discussed the ongoing situation on CNBC Africa. The conversation highlighted the need for accountability, justice, and international pressure to address the atrocities committed against peaceful protestors in Nigeria. The recent wave of protests in Nigeria, sparked by the #ENDSARS movement, has brought attention to the systemic issue of police brutality and government repression of dissenting voices. The interview with Ufeli and Aluyi delved into the deep-rooted problems within the Nigerian security forces and the challenges faced by those seeking justice and reform. Key Theme: The key theme of the discussion centered around the need for accountability and justice for the victims of police brutality in Nigeria. The conversation highlighted the role of the judicial panels in investigating the cases and making recommendations for institutional and individual accountability. Additionally, the role of the international community in pressuring the Nigerian government to uphold human rights and the rule of law was emphasized. Key Points: 1. Systemic Repression and Use of Force: Ufeli raised concerns about the pattern of military involvement in suppressing peaceful protests in Nigeria. He pointed out past incidents where the army had been deployed to shoot at protestors, resulting in casualties and human rights violations. The interview underscored the importance of adhering to international best practices and rules of engagement when dealing with civilian protesters. 2. Judicial Panel's Role and Challenges: Aluyi questioned the effectiveness of the judicial panels in Nigeria and whether they would be able to hold institutions and individuals accountable. The discussion highlighted the need for the government to implement the panel's recommendations and ensure that justice is served, even in cases where high-ranking officials or institutions are implicated. 3. International Pressure and Sanctions: The conversation touched on the role of the international community in addressing human rights violations in Nigeria. Ufeli mentioned the possibility of sanctions similar to past incidents where Nigeria faced international repercussions for human rights abuses. The importance of collective action and pressure from global entities to ensure accountability and justice for the victims was emphasized. Quote: Speaking on the role of the international community and possible sanctions, Ufeli stated, "The sanctions should be intensive enough to stand as a deterrence to African countries that claim to practice democracy but whose activities are contrary to the principles of democracy, contrary to due process and the rule of law. With the issue of the protestors, it's one that should always intensify sanctions to strengthen the issue clearly." The quote highlights the need for decisive action and global solidarity in addressing the ongoing human rights violations in Nigeria. As the cases of police brutality continue to be investigated and the judicial panels work towards accountability, the pressure on the Nigerian government from both domestic and international fronts is mounting. The #ENDSARS protests have ignited a movement for justice and reform, and the outcomes of the investigations and legal proceedings will be critical in determining the future of human rights protection in Nigeria.