The Nigeria Police Force has disputed a recent report by Amnesty International claiming that thirteen individuals had died as a result of the ongoing protests that began on August 1, 2024.
Amnesty International accused security personnel of using excessive force and lethal tactics during protest management.
However, the police have provided a detailed account of the incidents, clarifying the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths and injuries.
In Borno State, four individuals were killed, and thirty-four were injured following a terrorist attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP elements who infiltrated the protest crowd and detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED).
Additionally, in an unrelated incident, two civilians were killed when an unregistered Honda Prelude car drove into the crowd.
The driver abandoned the vehicle, which has since been recovered by the police, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspect.
In Kebbi State, a vigilante shot and killed a looter during an attempted robbery of a shop in Yauri.
This incident brings the total number of fatalities to seven. The police emphasized that there were no further deaths reported during the protests.
The Nigeria Police Force reported incidents of armed robbery, arson, and looting of public and private properties during the protests.
Police have arrested 681 individuals for various criminal activities, including possession of two AK-47 rifles and assorted ammunition.
No protest organizers or peaceful protesters were among those arrested; instead, those detained are suspected of engaging in criminal acts.
During the protests, nine police officers sustained injuries, with one officer who was initially reported dead now confirmed to be in critical condition.
The police have maintained that their personnel used non-lethal methods, such as teargas, to manage the protests and refrained from using firearms, even when attacked.
The Nigeria Police Force has urged peaceful protesters to withdraw from the demonstrations, citing the violence that has marred the protests.
They also encouraged citizens to disregard unverified and potentially misleading reports about the protests.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, emphasized the police’s commitment to maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety, and upholding professionalism in their duties.
The police also highlighted the effectiveness of their strategic deployment in cooperation with other security agencies in curbing violence and preventing further escalation.
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