By Divine Sam

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for justice, accountability and respect for human rights as Nigerians mark the sixth anniversary of the Lekki Toll Gate shootings associated with the #EndSARS protests.

Obi made the call in a statement on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigerian youths in their quest for a better country.

Reflecting on the tragic event, the former Anambra State governor said the shooting of protesters at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos left the nation with lingering questions about justice, accountability and the protection of human life.

He wrote: “Today, October 20, 2026, marks the sixth anniversary of the Lekki Toll Gate shootings, a painful reminder of the price Nigerian youths paid in their demand for a better country.

“On that fateful night, peaceful #EndSARS protesters were met with gunfire. Lives were lost, many were injured, and the nation was left with questions about justice, accountability, and the sanctity of human life.

“We must never forget. We must never normalise injustice.

“As we remember the victims, I reaffirm my belief that a New Nigeria is possible a country where citizens are protected, not brutalised; where young people are heard, not silenced; and where government power is exercised with responsibility and respect for human rights.

“Nigeria must become a nation where no citizen is punished for demanding good governance and a better future.

“May the souls of the departed continue to rest in peace. May their sacrifice strengthen our resolve to build a Nigeria where this tragedy will never be repeated.

“A New Nigeria is POssible. A Nigeria where every life matters.”

The #EndSARS protests erupted in October 2020, as young Nigerians took to the streets to demand an end to police brutality, particularly abuses linked to the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The Lekki Toll Gate incident became one of the most controversial moments of the nationwide protests, drawing widespread public attention and calls for an investigation into the actions of security personnel.

Six years later, the anniversary continues to evoke painful memories and renew discussions about police accountability, citizens’ rights and the responsibility of government to protect lives.

Obi’s message also comes as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with governance, security, human rights and the future of Nigerian youths remaining important issues in the national conversation.