Sunday Oguntola, the coordinator of the Take It Back Movement Student’s Wing, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent police brutality against students of Lokoja Federal University during a peaceful protest for a pedestrian bridge.
In a statement released on Tuesday, 25th of February 2025, Oguntola demanded swift action from authorities to address the violation of students’ rights, hold the perpetrators accountable, and ensure the construction of a safe pedestrian bridge.
“The Take It Back Movement Student’s Wing vehemently condemns the abhorrent and unlawful actions of the Nigerian Police against unarmed citizens, most recently exemplified by their brutal response to students peacefully protesting for their rights.
“This behavior, as unlawful as the very appointment of the current Inspector General of Police, must be addressed with the utmost urgency and severity.”
Expressing deep concern over the incident, Oguntola emphasized the need for immediate steps to protect students’ rights to peacefully assemble and advocate for their welfare, “The Nigerian Police are duty-bound to protect and serve the citizens whose taxes fund their operations. Instead, they have devolved into a force that represses and victimizes the very people they are meant to defend.
“The use of tear gas and other violent measures against peaceful protestors is a direct contravention of the rights and freedoms guaranteed to all Nigerians.”
Emphasizing their demands, the Take It Back Movement Student’s Wing stated, “We call upon the Inspector General of Police to take immediate action to address the horrific brutality witnessed at Federal University Lokoja. Those responsible for these egregious acts must be held accountable, and all officers must receive comprehensive training in ethical conduct. Additionally, it is imperative that a safe and accessible pedestrian bridge be constructed to ensure the well-being of the students.”
The Student’s Wing further warned that failure to meet these demands would lead to a further erosion of public trust in the Nigerian Police and jeopardize the safety of the nation’s citizens.
Last week, several reports revealed how an articulated vehicle carrying wood and jerrycans of palm oil lost control and rammed into the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Kogi State, shuttle bus filled with students, killing seven on the spot and leaving several others injured.
The accident sparked widespread protests among students and residents, who took to the streets demanding stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and improved road safety measures in the area.
However, videos have emerged showing scenes of police brutality and the use of tear gas against the students of the University.
Shortly, the school management announced a closure, which they claimed is followed by consultations between the Vice-Chancellor and the University Management, acting on the advice of state security agencies.
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