By Adedapo Adesanya
The planned protest called by Azeez Naira Marley Fashola, a pop star in Nigeria, has been suspended following the invitation of the police to discuss the prevalent complaints of Nigerians against operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
He wrote, “We won’t be protesting anymore because there’s a lot of changes being made right now. As a Marlian, we will give them a week to see the changes and if there are no changes, we will start a mass protest.”
He added, “The protest was a cry for change, Nigerian youths and citizens should feel safe. The government have promised to make changes. Whilst we anticipate their actions it’s important we stick together to sort the issues on ground.”
It was gathered that the musician, who gained prominence after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested him in Lagos for an alleged cyber crime, cancelled the planned demonstration after the police allegedly appealed to him to shelve the action, stressing that the concerns raised about operations of SARS have been heard by the Inspector General of Police, Mr Muhammed Adamu.
“The leadership of the NPF will work with the Ministry of Youth and other stakeholders, including youth leaders, youth entrepreneurs, CSOs and others in formulating and implementing consensual reforms.
“Today, Tuesday, October 6, 2020, by 11am, the Force PRO, DCP Frank Mba, will be having a live instagram chat with Naira Marley to answer questions and discuss the concerns of young Nigerians on the issues of SARS operations and other burning issues. Please stay tuned,” the police said today.
As at press time, the live chat was ongoing, though some youths and commentators have questioned the decision behind having the chat with the music act.
Naira Marley commands a huge following in Nigeria with his supporters gladly referring themselves as Marlians.
Nigerian celebrities; Wizkid, Davido, Ruggedman, Naira Marley and politicians protested against the harassment, extortion and forceful detention of youths by police personnel.
Their protests were touted successful after the IGP placed a ban on routine checks by SARS and other police units in every part of the country on Sunday.
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