Introduction

Six years after the #EndSARS movement shook Nigeria, activists and concerned citizens returned to Lekki Toll Gate to commemorate the anniversary of the protests against police brutality. The gathering quickly turned tense as police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.

What Happened

On Tuesday, protesters assembled at the Lekki Toll Gate to honour those who lost their lives during the original demonstrations. Police responded by firing tear gas, forcing many to flee the area. Among those present were Lagos State governorship candidates Funso Doherty and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, who joined the commemoration despite the disruption.

The incident echoes previous anniversaries, including 2021 and 2024, when similar clashes occurred. Security forces have consistently cited crowd control, while organizers maintain the right to peaceful assembly and remembrance.

Why This Matters

The sixth anniversary reignites discussions about the outcomes of the #EndSARS movement, particularly the promised police reforms and accountability measures. The Lekki Toll Gate shooting in October 2020 remains a contentious point, with judicial panel findings rejected by the state government in parts. Activists argue that without concrete changes, the struggle continues.

Human rights groups emphasize that the right to protest is fundamental, and that commemorations serve as both mourning and momentum-building for systemic change.

Key Takeaways

  • Police used tear gas to disperse #EndSARS sixth-anniversary protesters at Lekki Toll Gate.
  • Political figures including Funso Doherty and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour attended the commemoration.
  • The 2020 Lekki Toll Gate shooting remains a unresolved point of contention.
  • Annual anniversaries consistently draw security responses and public attention.
  • Demands for police reform, compensation, and judicial accountability persist.

Conclusion

The sixth #EndSARS anniversary at Lekki Toll Gate highlights that the movement's core demands remain unmet. While police dispersed the gathering with tear gas, the spirit of the 2020 protests continues to influence Nigeria's discourse on police accountability and citizens' rights. Ongoing advocacy and judicial processes will shape whether the promises made six years ago translate into lasting reform.