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Nigerians flocked to the streets of the largest city of Lagos on Saturday to join the growing protests against police brutality.
More than 10,000 protesters blocked the roads, paralyzing the center of the economic center, normally full of traffic.
Many protesters brandished the green and white Nigerian flag as they filled a major stretch of highway in the megacity of 20 million people.
READ | Nigerian bus drivers fight bullies, union and police in Lagos
Anger over abuses by the police’s notorious Special Anti-Theft Squad (SARS) erupted into widespread demonstrations last week, forcing the government to dismantle the unit.
An aerial view shows protesters gathered at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos.
Protesters gesticulate while holding banners at a live concert at the Lekki toll gate in Lagos.
The crowds have continued to grow despite the announcement of a series of reforms by the authorities.
The wave of protests is the largest display of popular power in years in Africa’s most populous nation, as young people demand more radical changes.
On Friday night, a gigantic crowd gathered at a toll gate that has become the epicenter of protests in Lagos to hold a vigil for those killed by police.
The protesters held their cell phone flashlights high as they called for accountability after decades of widespread abuse by law enforcement.
The Nigerian authorities have created a new SWAT unit to replace SARS and have pledged to hold officers responsible for abuses.
But many are skeptical the government will make genuine change, after a human rights group said up to 10 people were killed in the initial harsh response to the protests.
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