End SARS: Protesters took my scrapping of police unit for weakness – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has said some elements within the EndSARS movement saw his decision to immediately scrap the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, as a weakness.

The president also said the crisis raging all over the country has cost the nation steep economic losses.

Buhari did not immediately give any figures on the losses, but decried the damages inflicted on the country by armed thugs who have been attacking the protesters demanding an end to police brutality.

The president said this in a recorded nationwide address on Thursday night.

”On approving the termination of SARS I already made it clear that it was in line with our commitment to the implementation of extensive Police reforms.

“Sadly, the promptness with which we have acted seemed to have been misconstrued as a sign of weakness and twisted by some for their selfish unpatriotic interests.”

“The result of this is clear to all observers: human lives have been lost; acts of sexual violence have been reported; two major correctional facilities were attacked and convicts freed; public and private properties completely destroyed or vandalised.”