No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters
The Lagos State Police Command has denied allegations that its officers fired live ammunition during recent anti-demolition protests in parts of the state, insisting that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters despite viral videos and eyewitness claims suggesting otherwise.
Speaking amid growing public outrage and mounting pressure from civil society groups, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) described reports of gunfire as “false, misleading, and capable of inflaming public sentiment,” stressing that police officers deployed to the protest sites acted strictly within the confines of the law.
The clarification comes days after tense confrontations between security operatives and residents protesting the demolition of homes and business structures in Lagos, a development that reignited debate about the use of force, citizens’ rights, and urban renewal policies in Nigeria’s commercial capital,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Police Deny Use of Live Ammunition
Addressing journalists at the command headquarters, the CP stated categorically that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters during the enforcement operations. According to him, officers were deployed primarily to maintain public order, prevent vandalism, and ensure the safety of both protesters and government officials.
“At no point did any officer fire live ammunition. What was deployed, where necessary, were non-lethal crowd control measures in line with standard policing procedures,” the police commissioner said.
He added that the command is aware of videos circulating on social media allegedly showing gunshots, but insisted that preliminary internal reviews have found no evidence supporting claims that shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Background: Protests Over Demolitions
The protests erupted after residents in several Lagos communities took to the streets to oppose the demolition of homes and shops they described as “sudden and unjust.” Many protesters claimed they received inadequate notice or compensation, while others argued that the demolitions threatened their livelihoods.
As crowds gathered, police officers were deployed to strategic locations to prevent escalation. Videos later surfaced online showing protesters fleeing and accusing officers of firing shots, prompting widespread condemnation and renewed scrutiny of police conduct in crowd management,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
The police insist that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters, maintaining that panic at the scenes may have been caused by loud noises, crowd stampede, or the use of smoke canisters,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Police Explain Crowd Control Tactics
In further explanation, the Lagos CP said officers were instructed to prioritize dialogue and restraint. Where situations became volatile, he said, tear gas or warning dispersal methods were used to prevent breakdown of law and order,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
“Crowd control is delicate. Officers are trained to avoid lethal force, especially during civil protests. The narrative that shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters does not align with our operational reports,” he stated.
The command also urged residents to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed claims that could heighten tensions across the state.
Public Skepticism and Calls for Accountability
Despite the police assurance that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters, skepticism remains high among residents and human rights advocates. Civil society groups have called for an independent investigation, arguing that public trust in official statements has eroded due to past incidents of excessive force.
Some protesters insist they heard gunshots and saw armed officers aiming weapons, while others claim spent cartridges were found at protest sites. These allegations have fueled calls for transparency and the release of detailed operational logs from the police,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
https://ogelenews.ng/no-shots-fired-at-anti-demolition-protesters-lagos
Rights Groups Demand Independent Probe
Human rights organizations say the police denial, while significant, is insufficient without an independent review. They argue that whether or not shots were fired, the broader issue is the handling of protests and the protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.
“The question is not only whether shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters, but whether the use of force, intimidation, and arrests complied with the law,” one rights advocate told Ogele News,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Groups have urged the Lagos State Government to address grievances surrounding demolitions to prevent further unrest,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Government Urges Calm, Promises Engagement
Lagos State authorities have appealed for calm, noting that urban development remains a sensitive issue requiring dialogue. Officials say efforts are underway to engage affected communities and clarify resettlement or compensation plans where applicable.
While backing the police position that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters, government sources acknowledged the need to rebuild trust and ensure enforcement actions do not escalate into violence.
What This Means Going Forward
The controversy underscores ongoing tension between urban development policies and citizens’ rights in Lagos. Whether or not shots were fired, the episode highlights the fragile relationship between law enforcement and communities facing displacement,No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
As investigations continue, observers say the credibility of the police response will depend on transparency and willingness to allow independent scrutiny. For many Lagos residents, reassurance alone may not be enough without concrete proof that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters.
Conclusion
The Lagos State Police Command has firmly denied allegations of gunfire, insisting repeatedly that no shots were fired at anti-demolition protesters during recent confrontations. Yet, public doubt persists, reflecting deeper concerns about policing, accountability, and urban governance in Nigeria’s largest city.
Whether the police narrative prevails or further evidence emerges, the incident has once again placed Lagos’ protest policing under the spotlight, raising urgent questions about how authorities manage dissent in a rapidly changing мегacity.
https://lagosstatepolicecommand.gov.ng
No shots fired at anti-demolition protesters.
