The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has demanded an immediate retraction and public apology from Amnesty International regarding a publication titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on End Bad Governance Protests.” The demand was formally communicated via a letter dated January 6, 2025.
The publication in question, which Amnesty International released, includes numerous unsubstantiated claims that accuse the Nigeria Police of human rights violations, police brutality, and excessive violence during the August 2024 End Bad Governance protests. “Upon careful review and investigation, the NPF categorically rejects these baseless allegations, affirming that the claims are entirely false and without foundation,” stated the NPF.
The NPF emphasized that during the protests, the Police acted with restraint and professionalism, even in the face of provocation and violent attacks. “The Police adhered to global best practices and used minimal force where necessary. Evidence, including national media coverage, demonstrates the Police’s efforts to maintain law and order while safeguarding peaceful protesters. Criminal elements attempting to exploit the protests were arrested and dealt with according to law,” the NPF asserted.
The Nigeria Police Force strongly believes that Amnesty International’s misleading publication undermines the trust and confidence it has worked diligently to build with Nigerian citizens and residents. “The Force further underscores that such false claims harm the reputation of the organization and demoralize its officers who risk their lives to protect the public,” emphasized ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer.
In light of these falsehoods, the NPF has demanded that Amnesty International issue a formal retraction and public apology within seven days. “Failure to comply will prompt the NPF to consider legal actions to protect its reputation,” warned ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to its duty of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians, upholding the law, and earning the trust of the people it serves. “The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to its duty of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians, upholding the law, and earning the trust of the people it serves,” reiterated ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
