Police Write Amnesty International, Demand Apology Over #EndBadGovernance Claims
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has sent a letter to Amnesty International (AI), demanding an immediate retraction and public apology for claims made in the organization’s report titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on and Bad Governance Protests.”
In the letter, dated January 6, 2025, the NPF expressed strong disapproval of the publication, accusing it of making numerous unsubstantiated allegations. Specifically, the police criticized AI for falsely accusing the Force of human rights violations, brutality, and excessive violence during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests that took place nationwide.
Police Reject Allegations
The Force Public Relations Officer (PRO), ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that after a thorough review of the report, the Nigeria Police Force categorically rejected the allegations, calling them “baseless” and “without foundation.” He emphasized that during the protests, the police acted with restraint and professionalism, even under high provocation and violent attacks.
“The NPF affirms that during the protests, police officers acted in line with global best practices, using minimal force where necessary and demonstrating a commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting peaceful protesters,” Adejobi said. “Evidence from national media coverage substantiates our actions in safeguarding public safety.”
He also added that criminal elements who sought to exploit the protests were arrested and dealt with in accordance with the law, further undermining the accusations made in AI’s report.
Call for Retraction and Apology
Adejobi stressed that the publication’s claims were damaging to the reputation of the NPF, eroding the trust the police had worked hard to build with the public. He pointed out that such false accusations not only harm the image of the Force but also demoralize the officers who risk their lives to protect citizens.
“In light of these falsehoods, the NPF has demanded that Amnesty International issue a formal retraction and a public apology within seven days,” Adejobi said. “Failure to comply will compel the Nigeria Police Force to explore legal actions to protect its reputation.”
The NPF’s letter to Amnesty International underscores the ongoing tensions between the police and human rights organizations, as the Force continues to assert its position on the events surrounding the #EndBadGovernance protests.
Police Commitment to Duty
In conclusion, the police reaffirmed their commitment to their role in safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians, upholding the law, and maintaining the trust of the people they serve.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to its mission of protecting citizens and ensuring the rule of law prevails,” ACP Adejobi added. “We will continue to serve with integrity and professionalism, despite these unfounded claims.”
