Pop star Beyonce has spoken out in support of Nigeria’s #EndSars movement after peaceful protesters were shot at by security personnel at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos on Tuesday night.
The Grammy-winning singer said in a statement:”I am heartbroken to see the senseless brutality taking place in Nigeria. There has to be an end to SARS.”
The star faced mounting pressure from fans to support #EndSars, particularly after she highlighted various African cultures in her Black Is King visual album.
In her statement, she said she has been “working on partnerships with youth organisations” to support those protesting for change.
“We are collaborating with coalitions to provide emergency healthcare, food, and shelter. To our Nigerian sisters and brothers, we stand with you. Please visit beyonce.com for a list of organisations to show your support.”
British-Nigerian Star Wars actor John Boyega was speechless and wrote: ‘I don’t know what to say. To wage such war on your own people…They must pay.’
He added in his Instagram stories: ‘The world must see. The Nigerian government has failed its people. THEY MUST GO.’
Heavyweight boxing champ Anthony Joshua, who has Nigerian heritage, released a heartfelt video supporting the cause while also offering aid to hospitals caring for the injured.
US presidential candidate Joe Biden, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton and Naomi Campbell also condemned the violent crackdown of protesters on Tuesday night.
Rita Osakwe