Fri Aug 01 17:19:56 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Amnesty International condemns the Nigerian government’s failure to hold security forces accountable for the deaths of at least 24 people during cost of living protests in August 2024. The rights group says police used deadly force, shooting protesters at close range, and that no officers have been prosecuted. They also criticize the “sham trials” of hundreds of protesters arrested, facing charges like inciting mutiny and plotting to destabilize the government, for expressing dissent against soaring living costs following government reforms.
**News Article:**
**Amnesty Slams Nigeria Over Lack of Accountability in 2024 Protest Deaths**
Lagos, Nigeria – One year after at least 24 people were killed during widespread protests against rising living costs in Nigeria, Amnesty International is accusing the government of failing to hold security forces accountable. The rights group released a statement Friday condemning the lack of prosecution for police officers involved in the deaths, which occurred during demonstrations in August 2024.
Amnesty’s investigation found that police opened fire on protesters, shooting them at close range, often at the head or torso, indicating intent to kill. The protests, organized under the banner #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, erupted in response to soaring fuel prices and inflation spurred by President Tinubu’s economic reforms.
“A year on, despite the gravity of these human rights violations, not a single member of the security forces has been prosecuted,” said Isa Sanusi, director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “Those behind these atrocities must be held to account.”
Amnesty also criticized the ongoing trials of hundreds of protesters arrested during the demonstrations. They labeled the proceedings “sham trials,” citing charges ranging from inciting mutiny and plotting to destabilize the government to simply chanting slogans critical of President Tinubu.
The Nigerian Ministry of Justice has yet to respond to requests for comment.
While President Tinubu ordered the release of dozens of young, frail detainees in November following public outcry over their treatment, Amnesty International reports that some trials for the roughly 700 individuals arrested are still underway. The group reiterated its call for the Nigerian government to respect the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, ending the intimidation and harassment of protesters.
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