The Lagos State government in Nigeria has established a seven-member panel to investigate police brutality and compensation for victims with verifiable cases.

All Africa reports that Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos State, said a N200 million ($525 000), trust fund has been created to compensate victims of police brutality. The announcement followed days of #EndSARS protests, which have violently rocked the state.

Major roads in Lagos had been taken over by protestors and, according to All Africa, these major routes for economic activity in the state, had been blocked for several days. Angry protesters also want a change in governance in Nigeria.

On Thursday, Sanwo-Olu said a ‘Panel of Inquiry and Restitution’ had been set up for victims of SARS In Lagos. The State Governor stressed that no amount could compensate for the loss and trauma experienced by individuals at the hands of SARS officials. Sanwo-Olu said “We are setting up a help desk for the complaints and petitions to the panel. From next week, you will be able to reach them directly on dedicated (phone) numbers.” He added that the police officers involved in brutalizing protesters during a protest on Monday have been identified and will face trial.

Sanwo-Olu also pleaded with the youth to stop protesting and to give the government a chance to take appropriate action. All Africa reports that the #EndSARS protest has continued in different parts of the country despite concessions made by the government to placate the youth.

Umm Muhammed Umar