The Nigeria Police Force has refuted claims of extrajudicial killings during the #EndBadGovernance protests, as alleged in a recent report by Amnesty International. Addressing journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Force spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi dismissed the accusations as false, misleading, and damaging to the image of the police.
The report, dated November 28, alleged that police personnel used excessive force on unarmed protesters, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 individuals across six northern states. However, Adejobi stated that the Force has set up a Special Investigative Panel to verify these claims, asserting that the allegations were aimed at inciting public distrust and tarnishing the reputation of the police.
“These allegations are not only false and misleading but also a deliberate attempt to incite the public against the police and undermine the image of the Nigeria Police Force internationally,” Adejobi said.
He specifically addressed some of the cases cited in the report, stating that police investigations revealed no use of grenades in Borno State, contrary to Amnesty International’s claims. He also debunked reports of three deaths in Suleja, Niger State, and the alleged killing of a 21-year-old in Katsina, citing local sources that confirmed no such incidents occurred.
Adejobi emphasized the Force’s commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law, noting that officers deployed for protest management undergo regular training aligned with international human rights standards.
The Police Force intends to demand a retraction and public apology from Amnesty International, arguing that the report is a misrepresentation of police conduct.
“We urge the public to be cautious of sensational reports designed to incite mistrust and weaken confidence in law enforcement institutions,” Adejobi said, reaffirming the Force’s dedication to protecting citizens’ rights while maintaining national security.
