The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, on Sunday disbanded police Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
The IGP, who announced the decision in a live broadcast, .said SARS at both federal and state levels has been disbanded .
The development follows sustained protests by Nigerians both online and offline calling for an end to SARS , a police tactical unit now notorious for extortion, brutality and extrajudicial killings.
The protests have since gathered worldwide support, with football stars like Marcus Rashford, Mesut Üzil, Tammy Abraham, Anthonio Rudiger, among others lending their voices.
Protesting youths had on Saturday continued their #EndSARS in Abuja after President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday appealed for calm from Nigerians.
The youths were angry at the brutality and extortion suffered in the hands of operatives of SARS.
Most of those who protested on Saturday were seen carrying placards and chanting “EndSARS” as they marched through the streets of Abuja’s Central Area peacefully.
In recent times, the activities of the police unit have come under scrutiny and several members of the squad have been found guilty of using their position of authority to trample on the rights of citizens, especially the youths.
President Buhari had asked the Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu to address the concerns of Nigerians following the outcry of youths for an end in the unit.
“The IG already has my firm instructions to conclusively address the concerns of Nigerians regarding these excesses, & ensure erring personnel are brought to justice.
“I appeal for patience and calm, even as Nigerians freely exercise their right to peacefully make their views known.
“I met again with the IGP tonight. Our determination to reform the police should never be in doubt. I am being briefed regularly on the reform efforts ongoing to end police brutality and unethical conduct and ensure that the Police are fully accountable to the people” the President added.