Nigerian Police threaten legal action against Amnesty International over false allegations
Nigerian Police threaten legal action against Amnesty International over false allegations
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a stern warning to Amnesty International, demanding legal action if the human rights organization does not retract a publication it deems false.
The NPF’s response follows an article titled “Bloody August: Nigeria government’s violent crackdown on and bad governance protests,” which the police claim misrepresents the facts.
In a formal letter dated January 6, 2025, the police demanded an immediate retraction and a public apology from Amnesty International.
The NPF argues that the publication spreads misleading information regarding the government’s handling of protests, and it has made it clear that legal steps will be taken if the issue is not addressed.
According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Tuesday, the Police said: “The publication in question, which includes numerous unsubstantiated claims, falsely accuses the Nigeria Police of human rights violations, police brutality, and excessive violence during the August 2024 End Bad Governance protests. Upon careful review and investigation, the NPF categorically rejects these baseless allegations, affirming that the claims are entirely false and without foundation.
“The NPF emphasises that during the protests, the Police acted with restraint and professionalism, even at the highest point of provocation and violent attacks, adhering to global best practices and using minimal force where necessary. Evidence, including national media coverage, demonstrates the Police’s efforts to maintain law and order while safeguarding peaceful protesters. Criminal elements attempting to exploit the protests were however arrested and dealt with according to law.
“The Nigeria Police Force strongly believes that this misleading publication undermines the trust and confidence it has worked diligently to build with Nigerian citizens and residents. The Force further underscores that such false claims harm the reputation of the organization and demoralize its officers who risk their lives to protect the public.
“In light of these falsehoods, the NPF has demanded that Amnesty International issues a formal retraction and public apology within seven days. Failure to comply will prompt the NPF to consider legal actions to protect its reputation”.
Adejobi emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) is steadfast in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians, enforcing the law, and maintaining the trust of the public it serves.
