The attorney-general of the federation (AGF), has said there is a likelihood that hoodlums wearing military fatigues are responsible for the massacre of protesters at Lekki tollgate in Lagos state.
Malami said it was “pre-emptive” to conclude that there had even been shootings, adding that “hoodlums” may have been hired to create a scene.
While addressing journalists on Monday in Abuja, the AGF said investigation is underway to ascertain what truly happened at the Lekki tollgate.
Weeks ago, news of the shootings at protesters in Lekki Toll spread like wildfire across the country and beyond. Criticism from citizens, national and international bodies followed the unjust killing of the protesters.
The protest initially called for the disbandment of the Special anti-robbery squad (SARS) but persisted after the squad was dissolved. #EndSARS protesters demanded a reform of the entire police force.
Protesters occupied Lekki Toll gate for 13 days until the before they were forcefully dispersed by soldiers.
According to Amnesty international, a non-governmental not less than 12 protesters died in the Toll gate incident.
However, there are disparities in the number of casualties and no clear evidence has been produced.
“You cannot rule out the possibility of perhaps hoodlums that set in to create a scene… could equally partake in the process,” the AGF said.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos state governor, blamed the incident on “forces beyond my direct control”.
But the Osoba Olaniyi, acting director, army public relations, said the Lagos government invited the army to restore order.
However, he denied that soldiers shot protesters, describing reports on the attack by the military as fake.
The army also said it will not disclose the identity of its men who were sent to Lekki tollgate on October 20.
The judicial panel set up by the Lagos state government to probe alleged brutality by the disbanded SARS has already commenced sitting.
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