The police reaffirmed their commitment to public safety and transparency, while maintaining that the Amnesty report did not reflect the actual events during the protests.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has challenged claims by Amnesty International that the Nigeria Police Force used excessive force during the #EndBadGovernance protests held between August 1 and 10, 2024. Amnesty International had reported that at least 24 protesters were killed and over 1,200 detained nationwide.
However, Egbetokun, in a statement issued on Monday by Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, described the report as “unfounded, misleading, and inconsistent” with official police records. According to the IG, only seven deaths were recorded during the protests, none of which were caused by police actions.
Police’s Account of the Deaths
The IG stated that four fatalities occurred in Borno State due to an attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP operatives who infiltrated the protests and detonated an explosive device, injuring 34 others. In another incident, an unregistered vehicle rammed into protesters, resulting in two fatalities. He also noted a separate isolated death but emphasized that the police were not responsible for any of the seven deaths.
Egbetokun insisted that police officers operated professionally and adhered to rules of engagement throughout the demonstrations.
“The Nigeria Police Force acted in compliance with established rules of engagement, providing security for peaceful protesters,” the statement read. “Arms were not deployed unless protests escalated into riots threatening lives and property, and even then, specialized units were tasked with restoring order.”
In states like Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa, Nasarawa, and Niger, where protests turned violent with foreign flags displayed, properties vandalized, and officers attacked, the police used tear gas to disperse unruly crowds. The IG underscored that no live ammunition was fired.
The IG clarified that arrests during the protests targeted individuals engaging in criminal activities such as treason, vandalism, arson, and looting. He added that those detained were treated lawfully and that the Federal Government had since pardoned the individuals, demonstrating a commitment to reconciliation and unity.
Egbetokun announced a directive for a comprehensive investigation into Amnesty International’s allegations. Affected state Commissioners of Police have been ordered to submit detailed reports within one week to determine if any security agencies deviated from standard operating procedures.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to public safety and transparency, while maintaining that the Amnesty report did not reflect the actual events during the protests.
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