An American Congresswoman, Barbara Lee, joined US-based Nigerian-native artist, peace activist, and entrepreneur Prince Ayo Manuel Ajisebutu and the global community recently to observe a candlelight vigil for the lives lost during #EndSARS protests.
The #EndSARS movement called for the dismantling of the state police unit known as the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and 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, the Nigerians in my community, 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 continued.
“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.” (Thisday)