Police Give Amnesty International 7 Days to Retract, Apologize Over #EndBadGovernance Report
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Amnesty International, demanding a retraction and public apology for its report on the #EndBadGovernance protests, or face potential legal action.
In November 2024, Amnesty International released a report titled ‘Bloody August: Nigerian Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests’, which alleged that at least 24 protesters were killed and 1,200 arrested during the nationwide protests between August 1-10, 2024.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force launched an investigation, led by a special panel constituted by the Inspector-General of Police. The investigation, completed in December 2024, concluded that Amnesty’s claims were “false.”
On January 6, 2025, the NPF’s spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed in a statement that the police had formally demanded that Amnesty International retract its report and issue a public apology. He emphasized that the police had acted with restraint and professionalism throughout the protests, even amid provocation and violent attacks, adhering to global best practices by using minimal force when necessary.
“The NPF relied on credible evidence, including national media coverage, to demonstrate our efforts to maintain law and order and protect peaceful protesters,” Adejobi stated. He added that any criminal elements exploiting the protests had been arrested and dealt with according to the law.
The police further expressed concern that Amnesty’s report undermined public trust in the police force and tarnished its reputation. “This misleading publication harms the credibility of the organization and demoralizes officers who risk their lives to protect the public,” the statement read.
The #EndBadGovernance protests, fueled by economic hardship, hunger, and frustration with the government, were largely peaceful. However, parts of northern Nigeria saw violent outbreaks, with protesters waving Russian flags and looting public offices.
While Amnesty’s report accused the government of using excessive force during the protests, the police maintained that their actions followed global standards, even in the face of violent provocations.
The NPF has made it clear that failure by Amnesty International to meet the demands within the seven-day period will leave the force with no choice but to pursue legal action to safeguard its reputation.
