A recent report by Amnesty International has revealed a shocking crackdown on peaceful protesters in Nigeria.
The report, titled “Bloody August: Nigerian Government’s Violent Crackdown on #Endbadgovernance Protests,” details the excessive use of force by the Nigerian police against protesters during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance demonstrations between August 1-10, 2024.
At least 24 protesters were killed in Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger states. Over 1,200 people, including minors, were detained.
146 people, including minors, were arraigned and charged with treasonable felony. The police used excessive force, firing live ammunition at close range and using tear gas indiscriminately.
Eyewitnesses described the protests as peaceful until the police attacked, firing live ammunition and tear gas. The excessive use of force by the police contravenes international human rights standards.
Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, condemned the police’s actions, stating that “people in Nigeria witnessed unbelievable lawlessness as security personnel fired live ammunition at peaceful protests.” Sanusi called for prompt, thorough, and independent investigations into the allegations of human rights violations.
The report highlights that international human rights standards prohibit the use of excessive force by law enforcement officials. The standards emphasize that intentional lethal use of firearms may only be made when strictly unavoidable in order to protect life.
Amnesty International urges the Nigerian authorities to end the cycle of impunity and ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims and survivors.
The organization also calls for the immediate release of those detained simply for participating in the #Endbadgovernance protests.
