A Lagos-based advocacy group, the Take It Back Movement, has announced the release of #EndSARS protester Rasheed Wasiu, who had been in detention since his arrest during the 2020 protests against police brutality.
The group confirmed that Wasiu regained his freedom on Wednesday, March 4, after a Lagos court struck out the case against him, bringing an end to nearly six years of detention.
In a statement signed by its Lagos State coordinator, Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, the organisation described the development as a major milestone in its ongoing campaign to secure the freedom of individuals arrested in connection with the protests.
“Today marks yet another milestone in our ongoing struggle for justice, as the case of Rasheed Wasiu was officially struck out, restoring his long-awaited freedom,” the statement read.
“This development reinforces our belief that persistence, solidarity and commitment to justice will always yield results.”
The #EndSARS protests, which erupted in October 2020, were a nationwide youth-led movement demanding an end to police brutality, particularly the activities of the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Thousands of young Nigerians participated in demonstrations across major cities, with some protests resulting in confrontations with security agencies, arrests, and allegations of human rights violations.
The group noted that sustained advocacy, legal interventions, and public pressure had also led to the release of several other detainees linked to the protests. Those freed include Sunday Okoro, Olumide Fatai, Oluwole Yisa, Daniel Joyibo, Adigun Sodiq, Kehinde Shola, Salaudeen Kamilu, Sodiq Usseni, and Azeez Isiaka.
The organisation also commended a lawyer identified as Barrister Taiwo of Citizens Gavel for taking over Wasiu’s legal representation following the death of human rights lawyer Adeshina Ogunlana.
According to the group, Taiwo’s dedication and professionalism played a key role in securing the court’s decision.
It also paid tribute to the late Ogunlana, stating that his earlier commitment and legal work on the case laid the foundation for the eventual outcome.
“We reiterate our unwavering commitment to standing with victims of injustice and holding institutions accountable. This struggle continues until justice is not only pursued but fully realised for all,” the statement added.
