Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian police for using excessive force to suppress the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place from August 1 to 10, 2024. The protests were sparked by widespread anger over Nigeria’s economic conditions, including rising inflation and poverty.
In its report, the human rights organization claims that at least 24 people, including 20 young adults, two children, and an elderly individual, were killed during the police crackdown. Amnesty states that the victims were shot at close range, often in the head or torso, suggesting an intent to kill. The organization described the police actions as “unbelievable lawlessness” and accused the authorities of attempting to cover up the violence to downplay the true extent of the deaths.
“We are seeing clear evidence of excessive force used by the police against peaceful protesters. The victims were often shot at close range, and the police’s actions have been described as deliberate and brutal,” Amnesty International said in a statement. Eyewitnesses from several states, including Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa, reported that the protests started peacefully but escalated after police fired live ammunition and deployed tear gas. In Kano alone, 12 people were killed, with multiple deaths also reported in Jigawa, Niger, Kaduna, and Maiduguri.
In addition to the fatalities, Amnesty revealed that over 1,200 individuals were detained during the protests, with many facing charges of treasonable offenses. Among those detained were minors, and several detainees reported being subjected to physical abuse. One detainee, Khalid Aminu, recounted his experience, stating, “I was beaten with sticks and iron cables while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).” Another protester, Michael Adaramoye, was held for two months after participating in the protests in Abuja.
Amnesty also raised concerns over the Nigerian government’s refusal to acknowledge the scale of the violence. Despite mounting evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, medical records, and video footage, Nigerian authorities have denied any wrongdoing, instead attributing the deaths to “unknown gunmen” or dismissing the reports as “fake news.”
In response to these allegations, Amnesty International has called on Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to launch an independent and impartial investigation into the events. The organization insists that those responsible for the deaths and violations must be held accountable. “The use of firearms against peaceful protesters violates international standards, and the authorities must end impunity for these actions,” Amnesty stated.
The protests, which were fueled by frustration over government corruption and economic hardship, have reignited concerns about Nigeria’s human rights record. Amnesty International is urging the Nigerian government to uphold its obligations under international human rights law and ensure that justice is served for the victims of the crackdown.