The Trump administration has condemned Tuesday’s attack on protesters in Lagos, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

“The United States strongly condemns incidents of military forces firing on unarmed protestors in Lagos,” Mr. Pompeo said. “Those involved should be held to account under the law. We extend our condolences to the victims of the violence and their families. #EndSARS“

The comments came as international bodies intensified pressure on President Muhammadu Buhari to act quickly to resolve the violence that recently broke out across the country.

Presidential candidate Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, as well as the EU, UK, Canada, are amongst those who have condemned the attacks and urged peace.

The full statement from the State Department read:

“The United States strongly condemns the use of excessive force by military forces who fired on unarmed demonstrators in Lagos, causing death and injury.

“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.”