'We've Not Been Petitioned Over Alleged Shooting Of #EndSARS Protesters' Nigerian Army

A protester displays a placard at the entrance of the Murtala Muhammed Airport during protest against unjust brutality of The Nigerian Police Force Unit, the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), in Ikeja, Lagos on October 19, 2020. (Source: Benson Ibeabuchi / AFP) (Photo by BENSON IBEABUCHI/AFP via Getty Images)

The Nigerian Army claims that they have not received any formal petition over the alleged shooting of unarmed #EndSARS protesters at the Lekki Tollgate on Oct. 20, 2020.

Mr Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), counsel for the Nigerian Army, made the assertion on Saturday before the Lagos Judicial Panel of Inquiry and Restitution for Victims of SARS Related Abuses ad Other Matters.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Taiwo, Commander of 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, VI, Lagos, was called to give evidence on behalf of the Nigerian Army on the events of Oct. 20, 2020 .

“I must submit today that there is no allegation whatsoever against the Nigerian Army before this panel.

“I urge your lordship to discountenance any proposal that the testimony of the Nigerian Army should not be allowed because of a proposed petition.

“Unfortunately for reasons known to most of us, the Nigerian Army could not give their testimony when they were summoned on the last adjourned date. It is a very respectable organisation.

“The Nigerian Army is here again ready to testify, and they have set up their projector and is ready to discharge the summons.

“I repeat, as at six minutes to 11am today, no petition has been served against the Nigerian Army, if any petition has been served, we will respond,” he said.