Rasheed Bolaji Wasiu, one of the participants in the #EndSARS protests, found himself in a precarious legal situation three years after the events. He was arraigned before the Lagos State High Court for alleged possession of firearms. Wasiu, who has been in Kirikiri Medium Security Prison since 2020, faced charges related to the possession of a locally made pistol gun, an AK47 rifle, and four live cartridges.
The prosecution accused Wasiu of intending to commit armed robbery based on the circumstances surrounding his possession of the firearms. According to the prosecutor, the incident occurred in October 2020 in Suru Alaba and Mile 2 Garage areas of Lagos. Wasiu’s defense counsel highlighted his client’s lack of understanding of English and the need for the charge to be interpreted to him in Yoruba.
Upon understanding the charge in Yoruba, Wasiu pleaded not guilty, asserting that the firearms were found on another individual named Richard Ejiofor, and he was being falsely implicated. The case was adjourned to June 24 and 25 for trial commencement.
The situation surrounding Wasiu’s case reflects broader concerns raised by organizations like Amnesty International regarding the detention of #EndSARS protesters. Amnesty International accused Nigerian authorities of using trumped-up charges, including possession of unlawful firearms, to justify the ongoing detention of protesters. The organization also highlighted instances of violence against protesters and criticized authorities for failing to hold those responsible accountable.
