A recent Amnesty International report accuses the Nigerian police of using excessive force, including firing on protesters, during August demonstrations over the rising cost of living, resulting in at least 24 deaths.
The protests, dubbed “#10DaysOfRage,” were the largest in Nigeria since the EndSARS movement of October 2020.
The Nigeria Police Force has yet to respond to the Amnesty report.
However, in August, police denied responsibility for the deaths, stating seven people had died, attributing four deaths to an explosive planted by suspected Boko Haram militants, two to a vehicular accident during a march, and one to a vigilante shooting during a looting attempt.
The Nigerian government has not commented on the deaths but discouraged participation in the protests.
Amnesty International has called for transparent investigations into the allegations and justice for victims.
The report also highlights the release of at least 30 minors detained during the protests following criticism from human rights organizations.
Nigeria continues to face its worst cost-of-living crisis in decades, exacerbated by President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including subsidy removals and currency devaluation.
