Rasheed Wasiu EndSARS release confirmed after a Lagos court struck out his case, ending nearly six years of detention linked to the 2020 protests

A Lagos court has struck out the case against Rasheed Wasiu, a detainee arrested in connection with the 2020 #EndSARS protest, leading to his release after nearly six years in detention, according to the Take It Back Movement, a Lagos-based advocacy group.

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The announcement was made on Thursday in a statement signed by the Lagos State Coordinator of the movement, Adekunle Adeyemi Taofeek, who confirmed that Wasiu regained his freedom on Wednesday, March 4.

The group described the Rasheed Wasiu EndSARS release as a significant breakthrough in its sustained campaign to secure freedom for individuals arrested during the nationwide protest.

“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 said.

“This development reinforces our belief that persistence, solidarity and commitment to justice will always yield results.”

The #EndSARS protest, which erupted in October 2020, was a youth-led nationwide demonstration against police brutality, particularly the activities of the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

The protests drew thousands of young Nigerians to the streets across major cities and were marked by clashes in several states, mass arrests and widespread allegations of human rights violations.

According to the advocacy group, Wasiu’s release ends almost six years of legal uncertainty following his arrest during the protests.

The movement said sustained advocacy, legal interventions and public pressure had also contributed to the release of several other detainees linked to the demonstrations.

Those previously freed include Sunday Okoro, Olumide Fatai, Oluwole Yisa, Daniel Joyibo, Adigun Sodiq, Kehinde Shola, Salaudeen Kamilu, Sodiq Usseni and Azeez Isiaka, the group stated.

The organisation also commended a legal practitioner identified as Barrister Taiwo of Citizens Gavel, who assumed responsibility for Wasiu’s defence after the death of human rights lawyer Adeshina Ogunlana.

The statement praised Taiwo’s dedication and persistence, describing his role as critical in securing the court’s decision to strike out the case.

“His dedication, professionalism and unwavering pursuit of justice played a pivotal role in achieving this outcome,” the statement said.

The movement also paid tribute to the late Ogunlana, noting that his earlier efforts and legal groundwork were instrumental in advancing the case.

Reaffirming its broader campaign, the advocacy group said it would continue to support victims of injustice and push for institutional accountability.

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“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.