By Akinwale Kasali
In an apparent acknowledgement of the seriousness of the protests by Nigerian youths which have lasted 10 days and counting, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has profusely apologised for the Government’s belated reaction.
Thousands of youths in protest over the brutalities, killings, humiliation, and extortion of Nigerians, especially youths, by Special Armed Anti-Robbery Squad took over Nigerian streets.
Not a few people are shocked that President Muhammadu Buhari has not made a national broadcast to calm the situation down, just as they are that the leadership of the Police and Nigeria kept closed eyes and ears to the atrocities by some personnel of the defunct SARS.
And not a few are worried that the protests could lead to a revolution. The Presidency realises this. Short of a broadcast by the President, Vice President Osinbajo has taken to his Twitter handle to profusely apologise to the #EndSARS protesters, for the Government’s long silence as the SARS atrocities went on.
In the multiple tweets on Friday seeking understanding from the #EndSARS protesters, apologising and assuring them that government is responding to their demands, Osinbajo said the experiences of before will never come back.
Following is his message to protesters:
“Dear Nigerians, I know that many of you are angry, and understandably so. We could’ve moved faster and for this we are sorry.
“We understand that you want to see action from us and I’m here to tell you that work is ongoing. I chaired a meeting of 36 state governors and the Minister of the FCT (NEC), where we resolved to set up judicial panels of inquiry so we can see justice served, and fast.
“The reason being that only state governors, by law, can set up judicial inquiries in their states. The hearings will be public.
“With Mr. President’s approval, SARS has been completely disestablished, and none of its former members will feature in any police tactical units.
“I am sending my deepest condolences to the families of Jimoh Isiaq, and all those who have lost their lives at the hands of wayward police officers. To those injured, I wish a full and speedy recovery.
“We have proposed that each state government set up a Victims’ Support Fund, which @NigeriaGov will support. This is the least that we can do to compensate for the injustice suffered at the hands of errant officers.
“We also understand that the issues that you’re raising are bigger than just SARS. They’re deep and systemic and we’re undertaking comprehensive measures that will revamp the police by addressing issues of welfare, service conditions and training.
“On Monday, Mr. President also reiterated his commitment to these extensive police reforms.
“We will continue to update and engage with you all on these action steps and the ones to come, in the spirit of transparency, so that you can hold us accountable. We are, after all, here to serve you and we owe you a duty to win back your trust. Stay safe and God bless”.
It is not known if, and how soon, the youths will listen to the Vice President’s appeal, but on Saturday, they were out to the streets again.
