Amnesty International Report: Police Use Excessive Force at #EndBadGovernance Protests

Amnesty International Criticizes Police Tactics at #EndBadGovernance Protests

Amnesty International has accused Nigerian police of using excessive force to suppress the recent #EndBadGovernance protests held across the country.

The protests, which were organized to demand better governance, accountability, and reforms, were met with a heavy-handed response from security forces, according to the organization.

Key Allegations:

1. Use of Tear Gas and Live Ammunition: Amnesty International reports that tear gas and, in some instances, live ammunition were deployed against protesters, resulting in injuries and creating panic among demonstrators.
2. Arrests and Intimidation: Several protesters were allegedly arrested, with some detained without clear charges. The organization also highlighted instances of intimidation and harassment targeting organizers and participants.
3. Violation of Rights: Amnesty International criticized the response as a violation of citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and free expression, both of which are protected under Nigerian law and international human rights conventions.

Amnesty’s Call to Action:

Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to:

• Investigate the use of excessive force by security agencies.
• Ensure the release of arbitrarily detained protesters.
• Hold accountable any officers found guilty of human rights violations.

The #EndBadGovernance movement echoes the earlier #EndSARS protests of 2020, which also faced a violent crackdown.

Many Nigerians and international observers have expressed concern over the recurring pattern of oppressive responses to peaceful protests, urging reforms in law enforcement practices and greater respect for civil liberties.