Falana Alleges Police Used Expired Tear Gas on Protesters During Makoko Demonstration
Human rights lawyer and activist Femi Falana has alleged that Nigerian police deployed expired tear gas on protesters during a recent demonstration in Makoko, Lagos, raising concerns about the safety and rights of citizens participating in protests.
According to Falana, the expired chemical agents not only failed to disperse protesters effectively but also posed serious health risks. He described the use of such munitions as “reckless” and urged authorities to investigate how outdated and potentially dangerous crowd-control equipment was issued to police personnel.
The Makoko protest, which drew attention to local issues affecting residents, reportedly involved a peaceful march that escalated when police intervened. Eyewitnesses claimed that tear gas was fired indiscriminately, affecting not only protesters but also nearby residents and passersby.
Falana condemned the action, emphasizing that the deployment of expired tear gas constitutes a violation of both Nigerian law and international human rights standards. He called on the Lagos State Police Command to provide answers and ensure that accountability measures are enforced.
The activist further warned that failure to regulate and properly maintain crowd-control tools could result in severe injuries or fatalities in future protests. He encouraged civil society groups to monitor the situation closely and to demand adherence to proper policing protocols.
The Lagos State Police Command has yet to respond publicly to the allegations. However, the claims have reignited debates about police conduct, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights during demonstrations.
Civil society organizations and human rights advocates have expressed solidarity with the Makoko protesters, calling for safer and more lawful methods of crowd management in Lagos and across Nigeria.
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