Nigeria Police Force Demands Retraction and Apology from Amnesty International Over False Publication
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a strong rebuke to Amnesty International, demanding a retraction and public apology for a publication titled "Bloody August: Nigeria Government's Violent Crackdown on and Bad Governance Protests." In a letter dated January 6th, 2025, the NPF categorically rejected Amnesty International's claims of police brutality and excessive violence during the August 2024 End Bad Governance protests.
The NPF contends that the publication contains numerous unsubstantiated and false allegations. The Force maintains that its officers acted with restraint and professionalism throughout the protests, utilizing minimal force only when absolutely necessary, in accordance with global best practices. The NPF cited national media coverage as evidence of its commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting peaceful protesters. It further clarified that only criminal elements who attempted to exploit the protests were arrested and processed according to the law.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized that the publication’s misleading information undermines the trust the NPF has worked hard to build with the Nigerian populace. He stated that such false accusations damage the reputation of the Force and demoralize officers who risk their lives daily to protect citizens.
The NPF has given Amnesty International a seven-day ultimatum to issue a formal retraction and public apology. Failure to comply, ACP Adejobi warned, will result in legal action to protect the NPF's reputation. The Force reiterated its commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.