Investigative journalist Damilola Banjo uncovered disturbing political connections behind the violent crackdown on peaceful EndSARS protesters in Ajegunle, a Lagos suburb in Nigeria. In October 2020, widespread demonstrations erupted across the country in response to police brutality. However, in Ajegunle, protesters faced a particularly brutal assault.
Through interviews with survivors and witnesses over two months, Banjo pieced together how a local government official, known only as “Kaka”, masterminded an attack on demonstrators in the community. DJ Olympics, who was present at the scene, helped rescue 19-year-old Happiness Abraka after he was shot in the head. Abraka survived but is now permanently blind.
James Yaya died from a bullet wound suffered while protesting in front of his house. Multiple sources directly accused Kaka of leading officers and vigilantes to open fire on the peaceful crowd. As the chaos ensued, looting and arson took place. However, victims and their families insist it was demonstrators, not criminals, who were the real targets.
Kaka wields significant power in Ajegunle. When confronted by Banjo, the local government chairman denied Kaka’s involvement, contradicting statements from other officials. Further investigations also uncovered Kaka’s alleged role in two previous incidents of political violence, both of which were swept under the rug. Banjo obtained video evidence of Kaka openly brandishing firearms, confirming accounts of his weapons possession.
For the bereaved families, finding justice seems impossible. Ajegunle residents have little hope that police will prosecute Kaka or any of his boys.
