The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has expressed concerns over a report by Amnesty International accusing the police of using excessive force and killing citizens during the #EndBadGovernance protests. The report alleged that at least 24 protesters were killed and over 1,200 detained by the Nigeria Police during the nationwide demonstrations.
Egbetokun described the allegations as unfounded, misleading, and inconsistent with incident reports submitted to his office by affected commands. He maintained that police officers conducted themselves professionally throughout the protests and followed established rules of engagement.
The police chief explained that the force recorded several unfortunate incidents during the protests, which were accurately documented. He cited an example in Borno State, where four individuals lost their lives and 34 others sustained severe injuries following an attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP operatives.
Egbetokun also noted that in states where foreign flags were displayed, police officers were attacked, and properties were destroyed, the force deployed tear gas to prevent further escalation and ensure public safety.
Despite dismissing the Amnesty report, the IGP ordered investigations into the allegations, directing the affected Commissioners of Police to submit a detailed incident report within one week.
Amnesty International had alleged that the police used excessive force against protesters, killing at least 24 people and detaining over 1,200 ¹. The organization called for a thorough investigation into the allegations and for those responsible to be held accountable.
