The CLEEN Foundation has called for a comprehensive review of law enforcement responses to mass protests in Nigeria following the 2024 nationwide demonstrations.
During a media briefing, the foundation’s Programme Director highlighted concerns over police conduct, excessive use of force, and the violation of citizens’ rights during the protests, which spanned from August 1 to August 10, 2024.
The protests, variously referred to as the “Days of Rage,” “Hunger Protests,” or the “#EndBadGovernance Movement,” marked a critical moment in Nigeria’s political landscape.
While some security agencies acted professionally, reports of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and suppression of press freedom raised serious concerns about policing tactics.
Law enforcement and protest rights
The CLEEN Foundation reaffirmed that peaceful demonstrations are a constitutional right under Sections 35-40 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Law enforcement agencies, it stated, must protect this right while ensuring public safety.
The foundation urged the police to adopt a more transparent approach, engaging with protest leaders to prevent unnecessary conflict and enhance trust between security agencies and the public.
Citing the Public Order Act of 1979, which regulates public assemblies, the foundation called for the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) to guide law enforcement agencies in handling mass demonstrations.
It emphasized the need to avoid provocative tactics that could escalate tensions.
Findings from the situation room
The CLEEN Foundation presented findings on law enforcement conduct during the protests. Security forces deployed tear gas and live ammunition, with some instances of excessive force leading to injuries and fatalities.
At least 23 protesters were killed, primarily in northern states such as Niger, Kano, and Kaduna.
Many protesters were arrested, but authorities failed to disclose information about their whereabouts and well-being.
Journalists covering the demonstrations were also attacked by security personnel, restricting media coverage.
In addition, some arrested protesters now face treason and incitement charges, raising concerns over potential suppression of dissent.
Recommendations for police reform
The CLEEN Foundation stressed the need for security agencies to ensure their responses to protests are proportional to the crowd’s behaviour, avoiding unnecessary escalation.
Law enforcement should engage in dialogue with protest leaders before, during, and after demonstrations to foster trust and prevent conflicts.
Police should implement a tiered response plan that begins with minimal force and escalates only when absolutely necessary.
Actions should be directed solely at individuals engaging in violence, vandalism, or serious crimes, rather than indiscriminately targeting protesters.
Officers should undergo continuous training on appropriate crowd control and management.
Joint exercises with multiple agencies would improve coordination and preparedness for mass gatherings.
Clear procedures should also be in place for detaining and processing large numbers of protesters, with proper evidence standards upheld.
To enhance police accountability, the foundation called for equipping officers through the Police Trust Fund with modern tools such as rubber bullets, water cannons, and mandatory body cameras linked to the Police C4i system.
These cameras should be used during protests, arrests, and checkpoints, with public reports ensuring transparency.
The Police Service Commission must also discipline officers who violate protesters’ rights to prevent future abuses.
The CLEEN Foundation emphasized that Nigeria must embrace modern policing strategies that respect democratic rights while ensuring public order.
It urged the government to implement urgent reforms to prevent further human rights violations and build public trust in law enforcement.