One year after the #EndBadGovernance protests rocked major cities across Nigeria, Amnesty International has accused the Nigerian government of failing to deliver justice to victims and survivors of police violence and arbitrary arrests.
The global human rights organisation made the disclosure in a statement released on Friday via its official website and social media platforms.
The #EndBadGovernance demonstrations, which began on August 1, 2024 and lasted for ten days, were driven by growing public frustration over the country’s economic hardship, surging inflation, rising food costs, and fuel price hikes.
The protests, which drew massive crowds in cities nationwide, were largely peaceful but turned violent in several locations following clashes with security forces.
An investigation by Amnesty International revealed that at least 24 people were killed by police during the protests between August 1 and 10, 2024, in six states namely Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna.
Many protesters were reportedly detained and convicted on what Amnesty described as trumped-up charges, while trials are still ongoing in various states including Abuja, Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna.
“The Nigerian authorities are yet to take appropriate and effective measures to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” said the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, in the statement.
The organisation noted further abuses by security forces during the crackdown, citing indiscriminate shootings and the use of tear gas.
“Amnesty International found that the police fired live ammunition at close range, often at the head or torso, suggesting that officers were shooting to kill.
“Two survivors suffered injuries after being shot by police in the arm and legs, while others were suffocated by the indiscriminate use of tear gas.”
It also said “some protesters were tortured and punished with starvation while in detention, leading to the collapse of minors facing trial before the Federal High Court Abuja on November 1, 2024.
“The Nigerian authorities pressed on with all charges brought against #EndBadGovernance protesters despite overwhelming evidence that they did not break any law.”
Amnesty International reported that in Borno State, protesters faced harsh and humiliating sentences after what it described as unfair trials.
“In Maiduguri, Borno State, several #EndBadGovernance protesters were convicted and sentenced to community service, caning, or imprisonment after a sham trial on bogus charges. The charges included forming a group named ‘Zanga Zanga’ Group and agreeing to take up arms against the government.”
Amnesty also condemned what it described as the state’s “violent crackdown” on peaceful protesters, saying the response reflected disregard for fundamental rights.
The organisation condemned what it described as “the Nigerian government’s violent crackdown on #EndBadGovernance protests, seeing it as a clear demonstration of the government’s utter disregard for human rights.”
It called on government to hold security agents accountable and to take meaningful steps toward justice and reform.
The organisation also emphasised that “the #EndBadGovernance protests were a call for better governance and accountability in Nigeria. The government’s response to the protests has been widely criticised, with many calling for an end to police brutality and impunity.”
“One year after the protests, the victims and survivors are still waiting for justice. The Nigerian government must take immediate action to address the human rights abuses and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” the statement revealed.
It further stated, “The international community must also take a stand and call on the Nigerian government to respect and protect human rights. The use of lethal force and arbitrary arrests is unacceptable and must be condemned,” adding that “the Nigerian government must prioritise the safety and well-being of its citizens and ensure that the security forces are held accountable for their actions.
“The #EndBadGovernance protests may be over, but the fight for justice and accountability continues. The Nigerian government must be held accountable for its actions, and those responsible for human rights abuses must be brought to justice.”
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