Lekki Tollgate Shooting: We were not told about the change of curfew time – Nigerian Army

The Nigerian Army stated that the Lagos State Government did not inform the army of the change in curfew time from 4pm to 9pm on the day the Lekki shootings happened.

According to Channels, this was disclosed on Saturday, by the Commander of the 81 Military Intelligence Brigade, Brigadier Ahmed Taiwo, during the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry.

“Little mention has been made of the wanton destruction that happened prior to that occurrence. What is worse is that the families of the Police that were killed will not get closure because of the way their bodies were disposed.

 “The world over, it is the custom that the army intervenes when a situation overcomes the police and paramilitary services.”

The Army disclosed that 2 days prior, there were reports of violence in the state, which forced the Governor to seek the intervention of the Nigerian Army on the streets.

“The occurrences that took place from October 18 were nothing short of lawlessness and violence. This was what prompted Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to request the intervention of the army. The change in curfew time was not communicated to the Nigeria Army.”

He also disclosed that the Army was deployed in different phases to observe the situation, which reached its final stage and prompted the Army to deploy troops across Lagos.

“Contrary to what is out there, it was done throughout Lagos State upon receipt of Stage 4 of IS Security. Phase 4 is 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 or the armory.

“Troops were deployed from Badagry, Ikorodu, Epe, Apapa, Ikeja, Alimosho, and Lagos Island to restore order. The rules of engagement for internal security were strictly followed. It is inexcusable for troops to stand aside and watch the situation deteriorate,” he said.

What you should know 

On the day the shooting occurred, Nairametrics reported that Lagos announced the imposition of a 24-hours curfew in all parts of the state, with effect from 4 pm Tuesday, October 20, 2020.

Lagos State Government announced a few hours later that it has extended the enforcement of the 24-hours curfew from 4pm to 9pm that day to enable residents stuck in traffic get to their destinations.