Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, says the #EndSARS protest was one of his toughest moments as a leader.
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 like poor governance and unemployment.
Tens of thousands of Nigerian youths participated in the #EndSARS protest, leading 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.
Sanwo-Olu said the moment tested his leadership but noted that the needs of citizens must come first.
The governor spoke in Ikeja on Monday during a chat with 30 fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy.
The academy focuses on developing young, change-oriented individuals who are passionate about shaping Nigeria’s future.
“One of my toughest moments as a leader was during the EndSARS protest,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“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 eulogised the late Lateef Jakande, former Lagos governor, and urged the academy fellows to emulate the late leader.
”I know your generation may not know who Alhaji Lateef Jakande was,” he said, noting that the late former governor of Lagos epitomised leadership.
“That is why we are still talking about him today,” Sanwo-Olu added.
The governor encouraged the fellows to prioritise solutions and not challenges.(The Cable)
