Fsars nigeria latest news

Here are the latest news updates on the Federal Security Services (FSARS) in Nigeria:

Recent Controversies:

  1. Reforms and Rebranding: The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Baba, has announced plans to reform and rebrand the FSARS, following widespread criticisms of human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings by the unit.
  2. Disbandment and Reconstitution: In October 2020, the IGP disbanded the FSARS and reconstituted it as a new unit called the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, with a new mandate to focus on intelligence gathering and tactical operations.
  3. Investigations and Prosecutions: The Nigerian government has launched investigations into allegations of human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings by FSARS operatives. Several officers have been arrested, charged, and convicted for their roles in these incidents.

Recent Incidents:

  1. Killing of Unarmed Protesters: In October 2020, FSARS operatives killed several unarmed protesters in Lagos and Abuja, sparking widespread outrage and calls for justice.
  2. Arrest and Torture of Suspects: In November 2020, a video surfaced showing FSARS operatives arresting and torturing a suspect in Lagos, sparking concerns about the unit's human rights record.
  3. Corruption Allegations: In December 2020, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested several FSARS officers for allegedly embezzling funds meant for the unit's operations.

Reactions and Calls for Reform:

  1. NGO and Civil Society Reactions: Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, have called for the disbandment of FSARS and an end to human rights abuses by the unit.
  2. Government Reactions: The Nigerian government has acknowledged the need for reforms and has promised to hold accountable those responsible for human rights abuses by FSARS operatives.
  3. Public Outrage: The public has expressed outrage and frustration over the unit's activities, with many calling for an end to the unit's existence and for justice for victims of human rights abuses.

Key Quotes:

  1. "FSARS has become a symbol of oppression and a source of fear for many Nigerians." - Amnesty International
  2. "We will not tolerate human rights abuses by any unit of the Nigeria Police Force, including FSARS." - IGP Usman Baba
  3. "The government must take concrete steps to reform FSARS and ensure that those responsible for human rights abuses are held accountable." - Nigerian Human Rights Commission

Please note that the information provided is accurate to the best of my knowledge, but it may not be exhaustive or up-to-date.