The Nigeria Police Force, categorically dismissed allegations of extrajudicial killings made by Amnesty International in its recent report, labeling the claims as false, misleading, and damaging to the reputation of the force.
The report, dated November 28, 2024, and titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests,” alleged that police actions led to the deaths of 24 individuals across six northern states during protests.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi refuted the allegations, stating that an investigative panel had been convened to scrutinize the claims.
The panel, in collaboration with commissioners of police from the implicated states, conducted thorough investigations and produced a detailed report contradicting Amnesty International’s findings.
“Amnesty International is urged to reconsider its frequent inaccuracies regarding Nigeria’s law enforcement and to ensure future reports are accurate and reflective of actual events,” Adejobi said.
He stressed the importance of truthful reporting for maintaining the credibility of international organizations.
Adejobi disclosed that the police would formally request Amnesty International to retract the report and issue a public apology.
Adejobi dismissed allegations that police threw grenades during protests, stating that investigations revealed the protests were marred by violence, looting, and property destruction.
He cited the looting of the UNHCR’s Skill Acquisition Centre and the World Food Programme warehouse in Maiduguri as examples of the protesters actions.
Claims of three individuals being shot dead in Suleja were found to be unsubstantiated.
The alleged killing of a 21-year-old was also unverified, with local sources confirming no such incident occurred.
Contrary to Amnesty’s report, no protests or police killings were recorded on October 1, 2024.
Adejobi noted that a separate incident involving the Nigerian Army was investigated.
Amnesty International’s report of three deaths, including two women, was contradicted by police findings, which indicated a single fatality caused by protester violence, not police action.
The report’s claim of 12 deaths attributed to police actions was refuted.
Investigations revealed that the fatalities resulted from confrontations between looters and criminals, unrelated to police involvement.
Adejobi reaffirmed the police’s dedication to upholding human rights while maintaining public safety and stability.
He urged Nigerians to be cautious of sensational reports aimed at undermining confidence in law enforcement.
“We remain resolute in protecting the rights of all citizens and ensuring the security of the nation.
Sensational and unverified reports like these do a disservice to the public and to the principles of justice,” Adejobi concluded.
The police emphasized their call for Amnesty International to uphold the highest standards of fairness and accuracy in its reporting.
