#EndSARS: Reason Why Nigerian Army Deployed Troops in Lagos State, General Ibrahim Taiwo Reveals——The Commander of the 81 Division Nigeria Army, Brigadier General, Ahmed Ibrahim Taiwo told the Judicial panel on Saturday that troops were deployed throughout Lagos State on October 20th during the End SARS protests.
The Brigadier General who testified under oath on Saturday before the Lagos Judicial Panel explained that the action was taken to further check the violence and bloodshed that erupted.
His comment was an apparent response to speculations that soldiers only marched to the Lekki toll plaza.
The General said worldwide, it is custom that the Army intervenes when a situation overcomes the police and paramilitary services.
He noted that the occurrences that took place from October 18 were nothing short of lawlessness.
“Due to the urgency of the situation, it is no wonder the Governor (Babajide Sanwo-Olu) declared a 24-hour curfew which was supposed to start by 4 o’clock. Analyzing that further, it shows the situation was so dire and they (Lagos) wanted everyone off the street. After some observation, this timing was shifted to 9pm.
“However, these timings were not communicated to the Nigerian Army. Be that as it may, the Nigerian Army deployed immediately (after Lagos invitation) to forestall further violence and loss of lives. Contrary to what is out there, it was done throughout Lagos State upon receipt of Stage 4 of IS Security.
“Phase 4 is the immediate deployment of soldiers outside the barracks to intervene. To show how dire the situation was, the fire alarm beagle was sounded. When this is done, you report immediately to the parade ground. Troops were deployed from Badagry, Ikrodu, Epe, Apapa, Ikeja, Alimosho and Lagos Island to restore order.”
Taiwo stressed that it is inexcusable for the Army to stand aside and watch the situation deteriorate. He also added that lethal force was not used and that the rules of engagement for internal security were strictly followed.
The General said protesters pelted soldiers with stones and bottles, but that they fired blank bullets in the air to disperse them.
