Nigeria Police Force Demands Retraction and Apology from Amnesty International Over Alleged False Publication
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has formally called on Amnesty International to retract and apologize for what it describes as a “false and misleading” publication titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on End Bad Governance Protests.” The demand was conveyed in a letter dated January 6, 2025, addressed to the international human rights organization.
The contentious report accuses the Nigerian government and the Police of human rights violations, including excessive force, police brutality, and other forms of misconduct during the August 2024 End Bad Governance protests. The NPF, however, has categorically refuted these allegations, labeling them as “entirely baseless and unsubstantiated.”
According to the Force, a thorough review and investigation have shown that its officers acted with the highest level of professionalism and restraint during the protests. The Police maintained order while adhering to global best practices, even in the face of provocation and violent attacks. The statement further noted that criminal elements who attempted to exploit the protests were lawfully apprehended and prosecuted.
Highlighting its dedication to upholding human rights, the NPF pointed to evidence from national media coverage, which it claims supports its narrative of professionalism and the safeguarding of peaceful protesters during the demonstrations.
The Force expressed strong concerns over the implications of Amnesty International’s report, stating that the publication undermines the trust and confidence it has been working to rebuild with the Nigerian public. It also emphasized that such false claims not only harm its reputation but also demoralize officers who put their lives on the line to serve and protect.
In its letter, the NPF demanded a formal retraction and public apology from Amnesty International within seven days. The Force warned that failure to comply would leave it with no option but to pursue legal action to protect its integrity.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and fostering trust with the citizens it serves.
The letter was signed by ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, and issued from the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
This development marks another chapter in the ongoing dialogue around police accountability and human rights in Nigeria, a topic that remains critical to the nation’s democratic progress.
