Amnesty Urged to Retract False Claims: #EndBadGovernance Protest Report In Dispute
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has refuted allegations made by Amnesty International regarding the killing of protesters during the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.
Amnesty International’s report, titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests,” claimed that police actions resulted in at least 24 deaths across six northern states.
In response, the NPF conducted an independent investigation, which it asserts found no credible evidence supporting Amnesty International’s claims.
The police have described the report as false and misleading, and have called for its retraction along with a public apology from Amnesty International.
Force spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that the police are committed to protecting citizens’ rights while maintaining national security and public safety.
He urged the public to be cautious of sensational reports that could incite mistrust in law enforcement institutions.
Amnesty International’s report had alleged that during the August protests against economic hardship, police used excessive force, including firing live ammunition at close range, resulting in fatalities. The organization called for transparent investigations into these incidents.
The NPF’s rebuttal emphasizes its stance that the allegations are unfounded and that its officers acted within the bounds of the law during the protests.
The police have reiterated their commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring the safety of all citizens.