“Bloody August”: Amnesty Calls for Justice in Nigeria’s Protest Crackdown
By DAYO ADESULU
Nigerian Police Accused of Lethal Crackdown on Peaceful Protesters
Amnesty International has reported that no fewer than 24 protesters were allegedly killed, and over 1,200 detained during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests. The demonstrations, held between August 1 and 10, highlighted citizens’ grievances over poor governance and economic hardship in Nigeria.
Isa Sanusi, Amnesty International’s Country Director, disclosed the figures during a press conference in Kano State on Thursday, presenting a detailed report titled “Bloody August: Nigerian Government’s Violent Crackdown on #EndBadGovernance Protest.”
A Grim Death Toll Amid Peaceful Demonstrations
Sanusi revealed that the fatalities included 20 young adults, an older individual, and two children. Victims were reportedly shot by police at close range, often targeting the head or torso, indicating an intent to kill.
He stated:
“The death toll could be higher than 24 due to apparent efforts by authorities to cover up these atrocities. Peaceful protest over government policies has become a life-threatening act in Nigeria.”
The documented incidents occurred across six states: Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Jigawa, and Niger.
Demands for Accountability
Amnesty International is calling on the Nigerian government to hold security agencies accountable for their actions. The organization urged President Bola Tinubu to initiate independent and transparent investigations into the allegations of human rights violations.
“The Nigerian authorities must ensure those responsible for these atrocities face justice through fair trials,” Sanusi emphasized.
Between August 12 and 17, Amnesty International conducted field research in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states. The findings included videos, photographs, and testimonies from eyewitnesses, medical workers, and victims’ relatives.
