The police authorities on Sunday refuted allegations of extrajudicial killings during the #EndBadGovernance protests.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi dismissed the claims in Amnesty International’s November 28 report as false, misleading, and damaging to the image of the police force.
Amnesty International had accused the police of harming unarmed protesters and alleged that at least 24 individuals were killed in six northern states.
In response, Adejobi revealed that the Force had established a Special Investigative Panel to thoroughly examine the allegations.
“These allegations are not only false and misleading but are also a clear attempt to incite the general public against the police and tarnish the image of the Nigeria Police Force in the eyes of the international community,” he said.
“The Nigeria Police Force categorically denies the allegations of excessive use of force as claimed by Amnesty International as these claims are false, misleading, and an unfair misrepresentation of the actions and conduct of our officers.”
Adejobi addressed specific cases cited in the report, stating that police investigations contradicted Amnesty International’s claims. He clarified that officers did not use grenades in Borno State, as alleged.
He also dismissed claims of three individuals being shot dead in the Suleja area of Niger State and refuted the reported killing of a 21-year-old in Katsina, noting that local sources confirmed no such incident occurred.
Adejobi emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force operates with the highest professional standards and is committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law. He added that police officers assigned to manage protests undergo regular training to ensure compliance with international human rights protocols.
“The Nigeria Police Force will in due time be writing the Amnesty International to demand for a retraction of this report from the public space and with a public apology.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in protecting the rights of all citizens while ensuring the security and stability of the nation.
“We therefore urge the public to be wary of sensational reports designed to incite mistrust and weaken confidence in law enforcement institutions,” Adejobi maintained.