Aisha Yesufu: Nigerian Government Acted Like Terrorists During EndSARS Protest
Story: written by Okafor Joseph October 21,2025
Human rights advocate and political activist, Aisha Yesufu, has condemned the Nigerian government’s handling of the 2020 EndSARS protests, accusing it of behaving like a terrorist regime for unleashing violence on peaceful demonstrators.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Yesufu reflected on the fifth anniversary of the nationwide protest against police brutality, recalling the tragic events at the Lekki Toll Gate where security operatives allegedly opened fire on unarmed protesters.
She described the experience as deeply traumatic, recounting how young Nigerians waving flags and singing the national anthem were met with gunfire from security forces who were meant to protect them.
“The EndSARS protest wasn’t naturally concluded — it was violently suppressed. Soldiers, who are supposed to defend the country, turned their guns on innocent youths,” she lamented.
Yesufu added, “That day, 20-10-2020, confirmed what many had long feared — that the Nigerian government could kill its own citizens and nothing would happen. It was an act of terrorism by the state.”
She praised the youths for their unity and courage during the protests, emphasizing that their demand for justice and accountability remains valid.
