Sanwo-Olu Suspends Media Aide Over Comments On #EndSARS Protests

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has suspended Wale Ajetunmobi, his Senior Special Assistant on Print Media, following controversial comments made by Ajetunmobi on social media. In a now-deleted post on November 23 via X (formerly Twitter), Ajetunmobi claimed that individuals involved in the 2020 burning of Television Continental (TVC) were “hunted down and executed.” He alleged that one of the perpetrators was found armed with an AK-47 rifle, adding that others were overpowered during confrontations with security operatives. The comments sparked widespread criticism, with one X user questioning if Ajetunmobi was referencing extrajudicial killings. In response, Ajetunmobi denied the implication, stating, “Some of the people were chased by soldiers and exchange of fire occurred… Others ran away. Is that an extrajudicial killing to you?” On Tuesday, Gboyega Akosile, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, issued a statement addressing the matter. Akosile clarified that Ajetunmobi’s suspension was due to the “misrepresentation of facts” regarding the 2020 incident. “The Governor wishes to state categorically that his administration frowns at any form of extra-judicial punishment and will not be a part of any such action. That is not who we are. That is not our way,” the statement read. The controversy stems from events during the #EndSARS protests in October 2020, when Nigerians demonstrated against police brutality, particularly by the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). On October 20, 2020, security forces reportedly opened fire on unarmed protesters at the Lekki tollgate in Lagos, leading to widespread condemnation. In the aftermath, TVC headquarters and other public and private properties were attacked and set ablaze by suspected hoodlums. The Lagos government has maintained that it does not condone extrajudicial actions, with Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterating the state’s commitment to justice and accountability. This incident adds to ongoing debates surrounding the handling of the #EndSARS protests and their aftermath, including the revelation in August 2023 of Lagos State approving N61 million for the mass burial of 103 victims, whose deaths it claimed were unrelated to the Lekki tollgate shooting.

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Tayo Adelaja

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