Amnesty International has accused Nigerian police of using excessive force against demonstrators during the #EndBadGovernance protests, which took place from August 1 to 10 across the country in response to Nigeria’s harsh economic conditions.
According to the human rights organization, the police crackdown resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, including 20 young adults, two children, and an older person.
Amnesty’s report claims that the victims were shot by police at close range, often in the head or torso, indicating an intent to kill. Two survivors sustained severe injuries, while others suffered from the indiscriminate use of tear gas. The organization condemned the actions of security personnel, describing the violence as “unbelievable lawlessness” and accusing authorities of covering up the atrocities to downplay the death toll.
Eyewitnesses from Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and other states told Amnesty that the protests began peacefully but escalated into chaos when police opened fire with live ammunition and tear gas. In Kano, 12 people were killed, while Jigawa and Niger states reported three fatalities each. Kaduna and Maiduguri also recorded multiple deaths.
In addition to the killings, over 1,200 protesters, including minors, were detained, and more than 146 were charged with treasonable offenses. Some detainees reported being subjected to torture. One protester, Khalid Aminu, described being beaten with sticks and iron cables while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). Another detainee, Michael Adaramoye, was held for two months for participating in a protest in Abuja.
Despite mounting evidence, including eyewitness accounts, medical records, and video footage, Nigerian authorities have denied involvement in the violence, attributing the deaths to “unknown gunmen” or dismissing reports as “fake news.” Amnesty International has called on President Bola Tinubu to establish an independent and impartial investigation into the violations and to hold those responsible accountable.
The protests, triggered by widespread corruption and economic hardship, have reignited concerns about the Nigerian government’s disregard for human rights.
Amnesty International stressed that law enforcement’s use of firearms against peaceful protesters violates international standards, urging authorities to end impunity and ensure justice for the victims.
