Amnesty International has accused Nigerian authorities of killing at least 24 protesters and detaining over 1,200 during anti-government protests in August 2024. The protests, dubbed the “Ten Days of Rage,” were fueled by public frustration over soaring living costs, partly attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies.
The findings, detailed in a 34-page report released by Amnesty International, reveal alarming levels of police brutality and highlight a broader trend of shrinking civic freedoms in Nigeria.
Key Findings of the Report
The report, based on eyewitness accounts and interviews with victims’ families, medical personnel, and bystanders, provides a harrowing look at the events:
- Excessive Force and Fatalities
- At least 24 protesters, including two children, were killed across six states: Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger.
- Victims were reportedly shot at close range, with many targeted in the head and torso.
- Others died from suffocation due to indiscriminate use of tear gas.
- Widespread Detentions
- Over 1,200 protesters were detained during the demonstrations, many of whom remain unaccounted for.
- Lack of Accountability
- Amnesty claims the true death toll could be much higher, as families continue to report missing loved ones who may have been secretly detained or killed.
Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International’s Nigeria Country Director, stated:
“This report barely scratches the surface. Many families have come forward claiming their loved ones are missing, and Nigerian authorities refuse to acknowledge the people’s right to peaceful protest.”
Historical Context: A Pattern of Police Brutality
The August protests are not an isolated incident. Nigeria has a long history of police brutality, despite repeated government pledges to address the issue. The infamous End SARS movement in 2020 highlighted systemic abuse by the police, culminating in the tragic Lekki toll gate shooting, where unarmed protesters were allegedly killed.
The current protests underscore the persistence of these issues, with authorities accused of using heavy-handed tactics to suppress dissent.
Government’s Response
While the Nigerian police have denied using live ammunition during the August protests, there has been no official response to Amnesty’s latest allegations. However, during the unrest, General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defense Staff, assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to human rights:
“It’s our duty to protect Nigerians. We will not tolerate unconstitutional acts or vandalism, but we must respect human rights.”
Critics argue that these promises ring hollow in the face of recurring instances of excessive force and the lack of accountability for past abuses.
Implications for Nigeria’s Civic Space
Human rights groups warn that Nigeria’s civic space is increasingly under threat. Amnesty International emphasizes that the continued impunity for police misconduct will only exacerbate the public’s distrust of the government.
Isa Sanusi urged authorities to take immediate action:
“The denial of killings and failure to hold those responsible accountable signal impunity is alive and well in Nigeria. This must end.”
What’s Next?
As Amnesty International and other rights groups push for accountability, the Nigerian government faces mounting pressure to address systemic abuses and ensure justice for victims. Without meaningful reforms, Nigeria risks further unrest and a continued erosion of trust between its citizens and institutions.
READ ALSO:
Kindly Share:
Discover more from LMSINT MEDIA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.