Amnesty International has criticised the Nigerian government for failing to deliver justice to victims and survivors of the #EndBadGovernance protests, one year after security forces allegedly used lethal force and arbitrary arrests to quash peaceful demonstrations.
The rights group made this known in a statement posted on its website and social media platforms on Friday, August 1.
The protests, which erupted on August 1, 2024, and lasted ten days, were driven by frustration over harsh economic conditions, surging food prices, and a spike in fuel costs.
They swept through major cities before turning violent in some areas following confrontations with security operatives.
Amnesty said at least 24 people were killed by police between August 1 and 10, 2024, in Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna.
The organisation also documented arbitrary arrests and continued trials of protesters in Abuja and across several northern states.
“The Nigerian authorities are yet to take appropriate and effective measures to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.
According to the group, “Amnesty International found that the police fired live ammunition at close range, often at the head or torso, suggesting that officers were shooting to kill.”
The statement noted that two survivors were shot in the limbs, and others were affected by tear gas, while some were reportedly tortured and starved in detention.
In one instance, minors collapsed during a court session at the Federal High Court in Abuja on November 1, 2024.
Amnesty claimed that many protesters were convicted on dubious charges and are still facing trials. It cited a case in Borno where demonstrators were found guilty of forming a group called “Zanga Zanga” and allegedly planning to take up arms against the government.
“In Maiduguri, Borno State, several #EndBadGovernance protesters were convicted and sentenced to community service, caning, or imprisonment after a sham trial on bogus charges,” the statement said.
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In Abuja, those still in court face serious charges such as inciting mutiny, levying war against the state, and attempting to destabilise the country.
The group condemned what it described as a “violent crackdown” by the Nigerian government, calling it “a clear demonstration of the government’s utter disregard for human rights.”
It warned that the government’s failure to hold the police accountable may embolden security agencies to continue using force as a crowd control tactic.
“The Nigerian government has failed to hold the police accountable for the horrific attacks on #EndBadGovernance protesters.
“Failing to hold the police accountable will only encourage the security forces to continue using firearms as a tactical tool for managing demonstrations,” the organisation said.
Amnesty reminded the government that the protests were a demand for better governance, not an act of rebellion.
“The #EndBadGovernance protests were a call for better governance and accountability in Nigeria. The government’s response to the protests has been widely criticised, with many calling for an end to police brutality and impunity,” it added.
It urged the government to act swiftly to bring justice to victims and punish perpetrators of human rights abuses.
“One year after the protests, the victims and survivors are still waiting for justice. The Nigerian government must take immediate action to address the human rights abuses and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Amnesty said.
The group also appealed to the international community to step in.
“The international community must also take a stand and call on the Nigerian government to respect and protect human rights. The use of lethal force and arbitrary arrests is unacceptable and must be condemned,” it stressed.
While the protests have ended, Amnesty said the quest for accountability remains. “The #EndBadGovernance protests may be over, but the fight for justice and accountability continues.
“The Nigerian government must be held accountable for its actions, and those responsible for human rights abuses must be brought to justice.”