Manchester United star Odion Ighalo has become one of the latest celebrities to voice their support for protests against police brutality in Nigeria.
In a video on Twitter, the Nigerian striker called his country’s government “a shame to the world”.
It comes amid reports that several people have been shot dead or wounded during demonstrations in Nigeria’s biggest city, Lagos.
Officials initially denied anyone died and have promised an investigation.
Mr Ighalo, who has won 35 caps for Nigeria’s national football team, said in his statement that he could not “stay silent anymore”.
“I am ashamed of this government, we are tired of you guys and we can’t take this anymore,” he added.
Among those who’ve also expressed their support for the protests are actor John Boyega, and musicians including Estelle, Trey Songz and Chance the Rapper.
Pop singer Beyoncé Knowles said in a statement that “I’m heartbroken to see the senseless brutality taking place in Nigeria. There has to be an end to SARS”.
She added that she was “working on partnerships with youth organisations to support those protests for change”.
Musician Rihanna shared a picture of a bloodied Nigerian flag on Twitter and said: “My heart is broken for Nigeria.”
Earlier this week, US rapper Kanye West also showed his solidarity with demonstrators, saying “the government must answer to the people’s cries”.
British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua said he was exploring donations to support local hospitals and provide food packages.
“This was never a trend for me! It’s real life and I want to learn how to make lasting change,” he added.
The protests have also gained support from several high profile figures with no ties to Nigeria, including Twitter’s chief executive Jack Dorsey, and German-Turkish Arsenal player Mesut Özil.
Credit: bbc.com
The post End Sars protests: Growing list of celebrities pledge support for demonstrators appeared first on The Chronicle Online.
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