Amnesty International has accused Nigerian authorities of failing to deliver justice one year after police forces used lethal force and carried out mass arbitrary arrests during the #EndBadGovernance protests.
In a statement released on Friday via its website and social media platforms, the human rights group condemned the lack of accountability for the violence that marred the protests, which took place from August 1 to 10, 2024.
Sparked by growing public frustration over economic hardship, soaring inflation, high food prices, and a sharp increase in fuel costs, the protests drew widespread participation across major cities. However, they turned violent in several locations following clashes with security forces.
Amnesty’s investigation revealed that at least 24 protesters were killed by police between August 1 and 10 in six states—Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna.
The group also reported that many protesters were arrested and convicted on what it described as “bogus charges,” with several trials still ongoing in Abuja, Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna.
Amnesty International called on the Nigerian government to hold those responsible accountable and to ensure justice for victims and survivors.
“The Nigerian authorities are yet to take appropriate and effective measures to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” said the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, in the statement.
The statement added, “Amnesty International found that the police fired live ammunition at close range, often at the head or torso, suggesting that officers were shooting to kill.
“Two survivors suffered injuries after being shot by police in the arm and legs, while others were suffocated by the indiscriminate use of tear gas.”
It also said “some protesters were tortured and punished with starvation while in detention, leading to the collapse of minors facing trial before the Federal High Court Abuja on November 1, 2024.
“The Nigerian authorities pressed on with all charges brought against #EndBadGovernance protesters despite overwhelming evidence that they did not break any law.”
Accordingly, the statement quoted that, “In Maiduguri, Borno State, several #EndBadGovernance protesters were convicted and sentenced to community service, caning, or imprisonment after a sham trial on bogus charges. The charges included forming a group named ‘Zanga Zanga’ Group and agreeing to take up arms against the government.”
In Abuja, Amnesty stated that several #EndBadGovernance protesters continue to face sham trials in a Federal High Court.
The charges against them include levying war against the state, inciting to mutiny, and destabilising Nigeria.
The organisation condemned what it described as “the Nigerian government’s violent crackdown on #EndBadGovernance protests, seeing it as a clear demonstration of the government’s utter disregard for human rights.”
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Therefore, the organisation called for accountability and justice for the victims and survivors of the protests, adding that “the Nigerian government has failed to hold the police accountable for the horrific attacks on #EndBadGovernance protesters. Failing to hold the police accountable will only encourage the security forces to continue using firearms as a tactical tool for managing demonstrations.”
The organisation also emphasised that “the #EndBadGovernance protests were a call for better governance and accountability in Nigeria. The government’s response to the protests has been widely criticised, with many calling for an end to police brutality and impunity.”
“One year after the protests, the victims and survivors are still waiting for justice. The Nigerian government must take immediate action to address the human rights abuses and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” the statement revealed.
It further stated, “The international community must also take a stand and call on the Nigerian government to respect and protect human rights. The use of lethal force and arbitrary arrests is unacceptable and must be condemned,” adding that “the Nigerian government must prioritise the safety and well-being of its citizens and ensure that the security forces are held accountable for their actions.
“The #EndBadGovernance protests may be over, but the fight for justice and accountability continues. The Nigerian government must be held accountable for its actions, and those responsible for human rights abuses must be brought to justice.”
