Amnesty International has accused Nigerian police of using excessive force to suppress peaceful #EndBadGovernance protests held nationwide from August 1 to 10, 2024, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 people across six states. The victims included 20 young individuals, two children, and an elderly person, many of whom were shot at close range, Amnesty’s report revealed during a media briefing in Kano titled “Bloody August: Nigerian Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protests.”
The Country Director, Isa Sanusi, condemned the alleged actions, highlighting evidence of live ammunition fired directly at protesters and the indiscriminate use of tear gas, which suffocated others. “The death toll may be higher as authorities appear desperate to cover up these atrocities,” Sanusi stated.
Amnesty’s report documented incidents in Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Kaduna, Borno, and Niger states. In Kano, 12 protesters were killed, while three others died in Jigawa. Additional fatalities were recorded in Maiduguri, Kaduna, and Niger, with many victims targeted during peaceful assemblies. Amnesty also gathered testimonies from eyewitnesses, survivors, and families of victims, supported by video and photographic evidence.
The report criticized Nigerian authorities for failing to respect the right to peaceful assembly. It urged President Bola Tinubu to launch an independent investigation into the killings, hold security forces accountable, and ensure justice for victims. “The denial of these killings by the police only worsens the anguish of affected families,” Sanusi added.
Amnesty International also noted over 1,200 arrests and charges of treasonable felony against 146 individuals, including minors, during the protests. Protesters had initially gathered to express frustration over rising costs of living and widespread corruption but were met with violent crackdowns by security forces.
The organization called on the government to comply with international human rights laws, emphasizing that lethal force must only be used as a last resort to protect lives. It demanded the release of those detained unjustly and an end to impunity for violent crackdowns on peaceful demonstrations.
