The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has officially requested a retraction and public apology from Amnesty International regarding a publication titled “Bloody August: Nigeria Government’s Violent Crackdown on End Bad Governance Protests.”
The letter, dated January 6 and reported by PUNCH Online, was signed by the NPF’s Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who described the publication as misleading and harmful to the reputation of the NPF.
The report accused the NPF of human rights violations, police brutality, and excessive violence during the End Bad Governance protests in August 2024. However, the NPF has firmly denied these claims, calling them unfounded and lacking credible evidence.
“We have thoroughly examined the allegations and can confidently state that they are entirely false,” the letter asserted. “The Nigeria Police Force acted with the utmost restraint and professionalism, even amidst provocation and violent attacks.”
The NPF emphasized that it adhered to global best practices, using minimal force when necessary, and highlighted instances where officers protected peaceful protesters while arresting criminal elements trying to exploit the situation.
The letter cited national media coverage as supporting evidence for their claims. “The public can verify our commitment to maintaining law and order while respecting citizens’ rights,” it added.
Expressing concern over the report’s impact, the NPF noted that it undermines the trust and confidence it has worked hard to build with the public. “Such falsehoods demoralize our officers, who risk their lives daily to protect the public,” the Force stated, emphasizing that the publication tarnishes its reputation.
The NPF has demanded that Amnesty International retract the report and issue a public apology within seven days. Failure to comply, the Force warned, may lead to legal action to safeguard its integrity.
“We expect Amnesty International to uphold fairness and accountability by retracting this damaging report,” the NPF insisted. It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, enforcing the law, and earning the trust of Nigerians.
“We will continue to serve with diligence, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” the Force assured.
