The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a strong demand for an immediate retraction and public apology from Amnesty International following the release of a report titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on and Bad Governance Protests.”
In a letter signed by
ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi,
Force Public Relations Officer,
NPF categorically rejected the report’s claims of human rights violations, police brutality, and excessive use of force during the August 2024 protests. The Force described the allegations as “unsubstantiated and entirely false.”
The NPF emphasized that officers exercised restraint and professionalism throughout the protests, employing minimal force only when necessary to maintain law and order. The Force highlighted that evidence, including extensive media coverage, demonstrates their commitment to protecting peaceful protesters while addressing criminal elements that attempted to exploit the situation.
The NPF expressed concern that Amnesty International’s report undermines public trust and confidence in the Police Force. They further stated that such false claims harm the reputation of the organization and demoralize officers who dedicate themselves to public safety.
The NPF has demanded a formal retraction and public apology from Amnesty International within seven days. Failure to comply will result in the NPF pursuing legal action to protect its reputation.