The ICRC made the appeal in a statement posted on its website.

According to the humanitarian agency, first responders seeking to assist the wounded must be allowed to do their work unimpeded in Nigeria’s ongoing protests.

“They must be allowed to do their work while live ammunition must be used only as a last resort by security forces,’’ it stated.

Concerned by the escalating violence and the rising number of victims, the ICRC is calling for restraint as protests continue in several Nigerian cities.

The statement quoted Eloi Fillion, Head of ICRC delegation in Nigeria, as saying “security forces should apply non-violent means before resorting to the use of force and firearms.

“The use of force by security forces must be proportionate to the situation and should remain an exceptional measure.

“In compliance with international legal standards, firearms and live ammunition must only be used as a last resort and to protect against an imminent threat to life’’.

According to him, the Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) volunteers are on ground to deliver first aid and evacuate the wounded.

Fillion, however, emphasised on the importance of supporting the workers to deliver their services.

“It is important that first responders and ambulances are respected by all, so they can reach injured people safely.

“The ICRC and NRCS are closely following up on the situation as it develops,’’ he said.

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Anani made the appeal on Tuesday while speaking at the World Red Cross Day (WRCD) 2018 and Arts Competition in Lagos.

Our correspondent reports that the event was organised by the Lagos Branch of NRCS.
Anani said that the blood donation drive would hold on May 19, at the Lagos branch office of the society.

“I want to encourage my friends here and also members of the public, who are healthy and not older than 60 years to join in the exercise.

“A ready blood donor pool and a sustainable supply of safe blood for transfusion needs, during peacetime and emergencies are the cornerstones of a healthy and resilient community,” he said.

The Lagos State branch Secretary, Mr Olakunle Lasisi, later told our correspondent that the society aimed at getting 500 pints of blood from the voluntary donors.

“We will be partnering with the Ministry of Health and Blood Transmission Service for the exercise.

“Last year, we were able to raise 323 pints of blood from various blood donations we did.
“This year we are hoping for 500,” he said.

He urged youths and non-members to be part of the exercise.

WRCD is commemorated on May 8 annually to mark the founding of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

The theme for 2018 is: ‘Everywhere for everyone’, while the sub-theme is: ‘Smile’.

It is also a day to pay tribute to Jean Dunant, the founder of the society, and to the volunteers who provided assistance and humanitarian services to the vulnerable.

Prizes were also given to the winners of the Arts Competition, which was one of the activities to mark the event.

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