*Says disbandment of SARS is first step
*Assures Nigerians that operatives responsible for wrongful acts will be brought to justice
President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) is the first step to extensive police reforms by his administration.
The President’s remarks is coming a day after the Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu announced the dissolution of SARS and as the nationwide #EndSARS protests continue against the brutality of the disbanded police unit.
Speaking on the protest Monday in Abuja, Buhari said, “I will like to use this opportunity to say a word on the recent genuine concerns and agitations by Nigerians about the excessive use of force and in some cases extra-judicial killings and wrongful conduct of the men of the Nigerian Police Force.”
He said he had directed that all those responsible for misconduct or wrongful acts be brought to justice.
President Buhari said: “The disbanding of SARS is only the first step in our commitment to extensive police reforms in order to ensure that the primary duty of the police and other law enforcement agencies remains the protection of lives and livelihood of our people.
”We will also ensure that all those responsible for misconduct or wrongful acts are brought to justice.
”We deeply regret the loss of life of the young man in Oyo State during the recent demonstrations.
”I have directed that the circumstances of his death should be thoroughly investigated.
”Meanwhile, it is important to recognise that the vast majority of men and women of the police force are hardworking and diligent in performing their duties.
”The few bad eggs should not be allowed to tarnish the image and reputation of the force.”
