Nigeria Police Force Dismisses Amnesty International's Report on #EndBadGovernance Protests

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The Nigeria Police Force has categorically denied allegations made by Amnesty International in its report titled "Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests." The report claimed that the police killed at least 24 persons in six northern states during the protests.

In a media briefing held on December 22, 2024, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, presented the findings of an independent investigation into the allegations.

Key Findings:

- Borno State: The investigation revealed that protesters were violent, engaging in looting and destruction of public and private property. The reported death of three fuel attendants was attributed to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by unknown persons, not police action.
- Niger State: Allegations of police killing three persons in Suleja were found to be false, with reputable sources confirming no police involvement in the deaths.
- Katsina State: Claims of police shooting dead a 21-year-old protester were also debunked, with reliable sources confirming no record of such an incident.
- Kaduna State: The investigation found that a military patrol, not police, was responsible for the accidental shooting of a protester.
- Jigawa State: Allegations of police killing two female protesters were found to be inaccurate, with evidence showing that one of the deceased died from injuries sustained during a violent protest.
- Kano State: Claims of police killing 12 protesters were unsubstantiated, with verified records showing no police involvement in the deaths.

Police Response:
The Nigeria Police Force emphasized its commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law. The Force denied allegations of excessive use of force, stating that its officers are trained to respond to protests in accordance with international human rights standards.

The Police urged Amnesty International to retract its report and issue a public apology, citing the organization's frequent false reporting on Nigerian law enforcement activities.

In conclusion, the Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in protecting the rights of all citizens while ensuring the security and stability of the nation.