Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed allegations by Amnesty International that it used excessive force during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests.
In a statement on Monday, December 2, Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, described Amnesty International’s 34-page report as “unfounded, misleading, and inconsistent” with incident reports from police commands.
Adejobi said: “The Nigeria Police Force operated within established rules of engagement during the protests, including providing security for peaceful demonstrators.
“The police did not fire live ammunition nor cause the death of any protester. Officers demonstrated professionalism, restraint, and adherence to constitutional and international standards, even when subjected to attacks and injuries.”
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had earlier directed police commissioners to avoid using arms during protests, except in cases where demonstrations escalated into riots with threats to lives and property.
The police highlighted incidents that occurred during the protests, including a Boko Haram/ISWAP attack in Borno State that resulted in four deaths and 34 injuries due to an explosive device.
In another case, two protesters died after being struck by an unregistered vehicle.
“None of these deaths were caused by police actions,” Adejobi clarified, adding that in some states, protesters resorted to vandalism and violence, prompting police to use tear gas to restore order.
He further explained that arrests made during the protests targeted individuals involved in criminal acts such as vandalism, robbery, and arson.
He noted that the Federal Government had pardoned those arrested as a gesture of reconciliation.
The IGP has since ordered a comprehensive investigation into Amnesty International’s claims, requesting detailed reports from affected states to identify any deviations from standard operating procedures.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding fundamental rights, promoting the rule of law, and improving operational standards based on constructive feedback,” Adejobi added.