One year after security forces cracked down on peaceful #EndBadGovernance protests across Nigeria, Amnesty International has decried the failure of authorities to deliver justice to victims and survivors of alleged human rights abuses, PUNCH ONLINE reports.

In a statement released on Friday via its website and social media platforms, Amnesty International accused the Nigerian government of inaction, despite clear evidence of police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and unlawful killings during the protests that erupted between August 1 and 10, 2024.

Sparked by public outrage over deteriorating economic conditions, high fuel prices, food inflation, and poor governance, the #EndBadGovernance protests drew massive participation across major Nigerian cities. However, they turned deadly in several states following confrontations with security operatives.

According to the rights group, at least 24 people were killed by police in states including Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger, and Kaduna. Amnesty’s investigations revealed that law enforcement officers used live ammunition at close range, targeting the head and torso — a pattern the group says suggests an intent to kill.

"The Nigerian authorities are yet to take appropriate and effective measures to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

Amnesty further reported that several protesters were subjected to torture and starvation while in detention. It cited a November 1, 2024 incident in which minors collapsed in a Federal High Court in Abuja due to alleged abuse in custody.

Despite widespread condemnation, the government has continued prosecuting protesters on what Amnesty describes as "bogus charges." In Borno State, some were sentenced to caning, community service, or imprisonment, accused of forming a group named “Zanga Zanga” and allegedly conspiring to take up arms against the state.

In Abuja, others face charges of inciting mutiny, levying war against the state, and attempting to destabilize Nigeria — all of which Amnesty describes as politically motivated.

“The Nigerian government’s violent crackdown on #EndBadGovernance protests is a clear demonstration of utter disregard for human rights,” the organisation stated, warning that failure to hold police officers accountable will embolden further abuses.

Amnesty stressed that the protests were a peaceful call for better governance and accountability, and urged both the Nigerian government and the international community to ensure justice is served.

“The victims and survivors are still waiting,” the statement said. “The Nigerian government must take immediate action to investigate these abuses, hold perpetrators accountable, and ensure non-repetition. The use of lethal force and arbitrary arrests is unacceptable and must be condemned.”

Amnesty concluded by calling on global actors to demand respect for human rights in Nigeria and to support efforts toward justice for the victims of the #EndBadGovernance protests.