The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has formally demanded a retraction and public apology from Amnesty International following the publication of a report titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on End Bad Governance Protests.” The report, released in early January 2025, accused the NPF of human rights abuses and excessive use of force during the August 2024 End Bad Governance protests.
In a letter dated 6th January 2025, the NPF described the allegations as unsubstantiated and misleading, asserting that the Police acted with restraint and professionalism throughout the protests. The Force emphasized that it adhered to international best practices and only used minimal force when necessary to maintain public order. According to the NPF, media coverage and independent reports corroborate their efforts to ensure the safety of peaceful protesters while addressing criminal elements who sought to exploit the protests.
The NPF expressed concerns that Amnesty International’s publication could damage the trust and confidence that the Police have worked to build with the Nigerian public. The Force warned that such allegations could demoralize officers who risk their lives daily to protect citizens.
The NPF has given Amnesty International a seven-day ultimatum to issue a formal retraction and public apology. Failure to do so, the NPF stated, would result in legal action to protect its reputation.
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, reiterated the NPF’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, upholding the law, and maintaining public trust.
As of now, Amnesty International has not responded to the NPF’s demands.
