Abuja, Nigeria — Amnesty International has called on President Bola Tinubu to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged detention, assault, and killing of demonstrators during the #EndBadGovernance protests held in August across major Nigerian cities. The protests, driven by growing frustration over rising living costs and pervasive corruption, reportedly turned violent as security forces allegedly used excessive force against peaceful demonstrators.
In a recent report, Amnesty International accused the Nigerian police of firing live ammunition at unarmed protesters, deliberately targeting vital areas such as the head and chest. The human rights organization documented the deaths of 24 people across six states, including Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger, between August 1 and August 10, 2024. Among the victims were 20 young adults, two children, and an elderly person.
“Survivors recounted horrific scenes,” the report noted, describing injuries from gunshot wounds to the arms and legs, and the effects of tear gas that left some suffocating. Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, expressed concerns that the true death toll could be higher, accusing authorities of attempting to conceal the extent of the violence.
“The excessive use of force by the police during these protests blatantly violates international human rights standards, including the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials,” Sanusi said.
Amnesty further alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested individuals who expressed support for the protests on social media, highlighting a growing clampdown on dissent.
“Peaceful protest over government policies has become a matter of life and death in Nigeria,” Sanusi stated, criticizing what he described as the authorities’ “flagrant denials” of any wrongdoing. “The Nigerian police’s response demonstrates an utter disregard for the sanctity of human life.”
Amnesty International is urging President Tinubu to ensure the immediate release of detained protesters and to hold accountable those responsible for the violence. Sanusi emphasized the need to end the “cycle of impunity” and provide justice and compensation for victims and their families.
As calls for accountability grow, observers are watching closely to see how Tinubu’s administration will respond to the mounting pressure for a transparent investigation into the events that have further strained public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.