The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern ultimatum to Amnesty International, giving the global human rights organization seven days to retract and publicly apologize for its recent report on the #EndBadGovernance protests or face the full force of the law.
In November 2024, Amnesty International released a damning report titled “Bloody August: Violent Suppression of #EndBadGovernance Protests by the Nigerian Government”. The report alleged that during the nationwide protests from August 1-10, 2024, at least 24 demonstrators were killed, and 1,200 others detained. These allegations have since sparked outrage and scrutiny.
In response, the NPF launched an investigation through a special committee established by the Inspector-General of Police in December 2024. The inquiry, according to the police, found Amnesty International’s claims to be “baseless and untrue.”
Police Demand Retraction and Apology
In a statement issued on Tuesday, NPF spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi disclosed that a formal letter was sent to Amnesty International on January 6, 2025, demanding an immediate retraction of the report and a public apology. Adejobi emphasized the professionalism displayed by police officers during the protests, noting that law enforcement personnel exercised “restraint and professionalism, even amidst intense provocation and violent assaults.” He further claimed that the police adhered to global best practices, applying only minimal force when necessary.
“Falsehood Undermines Trust,” Police Say
Adejobi did not mince words, accusing Amnesty International’s report of undermining public trust in the police. He expressed concern that such publications erode confidence in the police force, demoralizing officers who risk their lives to maintain peace and protect citizens.
“This deceptive publication tarnishes the organization’s reputation and disheartens its officers who put their lives on the line to safeguard the public,” he warned. Adejobi also reiterated that only individuals with criminal intent were arrested during the protests and were processed in accordance with the law.
Legal Action Looms
The NPF has declared that failure by Amnesty International to comply with the demands within the stipulated seven days will trigger legal proceedings.
“Should Amnesty International refuse to retract this malicious report and offer an unreserved apology, the Nigeria Police Force will have no choice but to pursue legal action to protect its integrity and restore public confidence,” the statement concluded.
Bottom Line
This escalating standoff between the NPF and Amnesty International sends a clear message: the police will not tolerate what they perceive as false accusations.
The clock is ticking for Amnesty International to respond, and the potential legal battle threatens to further strain the relationship between the Nigerian government and international human rights watchdogs.
