The United States government has condemned in strong terms the use of excessive force by military forces who fired on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos, causing death and injury.

This was contained in a statement b he US state department, Nigeria on Thursday.

According to the statement, “We welcome an immediate investigation into any use of excessive force by members of the security forces.  Those involved should be held to account in accordance with Nigerian law”.

“The right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are essential human rights and core democratic principles.  We call on the security services to show maximum restraint and respect fundamental rights and for demonstrators to remain peaceful.  We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families”.