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”.
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 Beyonce Knowles said in a statement that she was “working on partnerships with youth organisations to support those protests for change”.
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.
It comes amid reports that several people have been shot dead or woundedduring demonstrations in Nigeria’s biggest city, Lagos.
State government officials denied there were any deaths 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.
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”.
In a video address on Monday, President Buhari said every police officer responsible for wrongdoing would be brought to justice, and that the disbandment of Sars was “only the first step in our commitment to extensive police reform”.
