One year after security forces reportedly cracked down on peaceful #EndBadGovernance protesters in Nigeria, Amnesty International has raised concerns over the lack of accountability and justice for victims and survivors of the demonstrations.
In a statement released on its website and social media platforms on Friday, the human rights organisation accused the Nigerian authorities of failing to take meaningful steps toward redress for those affected by the violence and arbitrary arrests that followed the protests.
The #EndBadGovernance movement, which began on August 1, 2024, and continued for ten days, drew thousands of demonstrators across major cities in Nigeria.
Citizens took to the streets to express growing frustration over economic hardship, inflation, rising fuel costs, and perceived government inefficiency.
However, what started as peaceful demonstrations quickly escalated into chaos in some areas following clashes with security operatives.
Amnesty International’s findings revealed that at least 24 people were killed by the police between August 1 and 10, 2024, across states including Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna.
The organisation also noted that some of the protesters were convicted under what it described as trumped-up charges, with ongoing trials in several states such as 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 statement added, “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.”
According to Amnesty, some of the convictions occurred under questionable legal circumstances.
“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.”
In Abuja, Amnesty stated that several #EndBadGovernance protesters continue to face sham trials in a Federal High Court.
The charges against them include levying war against the state, inciting to mutiny, and destabilising Nigeria.
Amnesty International condemned the crackdown, calling it an alarming reflection of the government’s disregard for human rights and civic freedoms.
“The Nigerian government has failed to hold the police accountable for the horrific attacks on #EndBadGovernance protesters. Failing to hold the police accountable will only encourage the security forces to continue using firearms as a tactical tool for managing demonstrations.”
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.”