Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said the #EndSARS protest tested his leadership but noted that the needs of citizens must come first.
The #EndSARS protest, which began in October 2020, was triggered by a viral video of a young man allegedly killed by the defunct Special Anti-robbery Squad (SARS) officers.
The protesters initially demanded the disbanding of SARS due to the rising cases of police brutality across the country, but the demonstration later expanded to address broader issues such as poor governance and unemployment.
Thousands of Nigerian youths participated in the #EndSARS protest across different states, which led to significant global support and media attention.
However, the protests, mostly in Lagos, were met with violent repression by security agents, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries among demonstrators.
Speaking in Ikeja on Monday during a chat with 30 fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Sanwo-Olu said the #EndSARS protest was one of his toughest moments as a leader.
Sanwo-Olu stated that working hard to create good news amid adverse circumstances is essential.
He said, “One of my toughest moments as a leader was during the EndSARS protest.
“We have been tested as a government, but we must continue to put the needs of Lagosians beyond our struggles as a responsive and responsible government.
“No bad news stays forever. Work hard to create good news and make sure people listen to it.”
Sanwo-Olu also eulogised the former Lagos governor, late Lateef Jakande, and urged the academy fellows to emulate him.
He added, “I know your generation may not know who Alhaji Lateef Jakande was, he epitomised leadership.
“That is why we are still talking about him today.”
