The Nigeria Governor’ Forum (NGF) has appealed to the End SARS protesters to call off the demonstrations across the country.
The NGF Chairman and Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi who made this known in a statement released on Sunday said criminal elements and hoodlums have hijacked the protests by looting and destroying properties.
“We the members of the Nigerian Governor’s forum Condemn the attack on Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun State by armed persons while he was addressing anti-police brutality protesters in the state capital Osogbo.
“Protesters are encouraged to engage with the government appropriately at both the national and state level to ensure that the protests are not taken over by hoodlums who are instigating a breakdown in law and order in many parts of the country.
“Also, a Judicial Panel of Enquiry will be activated to receive all cases of police brutality by officers of the disbanded SARS Unit. Each State is also expected to kickstart a compensation mechanism for all victims.
“We also resolved to endorse the call by demonstrators for improved governance predicated on an enforcement regime that takes into cognizance the fundamental human rights and liberties of all citizens in the country.
“However, we will act on all the Demands made by the EndSARS protesters raising some concerns with the shifting nature of the demands which creates uncertainty on the exact expectations and ultimate goal.
“Finally, we appeal for the call off of protests as a continuation grossly exposes the fragile economic fundamentals of the country; particularly as criminal elements and hoodlums have hijacked the protests by maiming innocent citizens, looting and destroying properties,” the statement read.
