Why protesters paralysed Africa’s biggest city Lagos, Nigeria
- Nigeria has been rocked by demonstrations by people protesting alleged police brutality
- Protests were sparked by video of man beaten by members of police squad called SARS
Nigerian protesters paralysed Africa’s biggest city Lagos on Monday, blocking the airport as widespread demonstrations sparked by police brutality spiralled.
Hundreds of mainly young protesters waving flags and placards marched outside the international departures terminal in the economic hub.
The wave of demonstrations began some 10 days ago when crowds took to the streets over abuses by the police’s loathed Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The outpouring of anger forced the government to scrap the unit a week ago and promise reforms – but protests have continued to swell as the young demonstrators demand more sweeping changes.
Reports of violence have begun to rise following a lull in bloodshed as officials promised to rein in the security forces after an initial harsh response from police.
