The Nigerian Correctional Service, Lagos State Command, has revealed that no fewer than 20 inmates were killed during the attack on the Ikoyi Custodial Centre following the #EndSARS protest of October 2020.
Mr. Olarotimi Oladokun who is the spokesperson for the command made this known on Thursday while reacting to the statement of a witness, Christian Akara, who testified before a coroner’s inquest on the issues surrounding the protests.
Akara had recounted that no fewer than 150 inmates were killed by an armed guard, adding that he joined in carrying the bodies.
However, Oladokun, in a statement, said some invaders engaged security guards in a shootout, which led to 20 deaths.
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He said, ‘The invaders, who came in large numbers, engaged the security guards in heavy exchange of fire, encouraging hardened inmates to set the facility on fire in an attempt to cause mass escape. Thankfully, what would have resulted in an unprecedented security breach in Lagos State was professionally rebuffed.
‘Sadly, 20 inmates lost their lives while desperately trying to escape and eight correctional officers sustained various degrees of injury with some, life-threatening. In line with correctional service protocols, the respective stakeholders and next-of-kins of the deceased have been duly notified.’
Meanwhile, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and 116 Nigerians had a few weeks ago dragged President Muhammadu Buhari to court over the #EndSARS panel report for the alleged shooting of peaceful protesters at the Lekki toll-gate and police brutality cases.
SERAP is praying the Federal High Court, Abuja, to ‘direct and compel’ President Buhari to take prompt steps by ensuring the arrest of policemen and soldiers indicted by the Lagos #EndSARS panel report.
In suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1482/2021 filed on Friday, SERAP is also asking the court to direct President Buhari to ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims, including suitable compensation.