Police Accountability in Focus: Nigerian Situation Room Calls for Immediate Shutdown of ‘Tiger Base’ Over Torture and Extrajudicial Killing Claims!
Reported by Marian opeyemi fasesan Editor -in- chief | Sele Media Africa
Nigeria’s civic space watchdog, the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, has called for the immediate closure of the controversial police tactical unit popularly known as “Tiger Base”, citing persistent allegations of torture, unlawful detention, and extrajudicial killings linked to the facility.
The group’s demand follows renewed public concern over reports that suspects held at the unit have been subjected to severe human rights violations, including physical abuse, coercion, and deaths in custody. The Situation Room argued that the continued operation of the unit undermines Nigeria’s constitutional guarantees and international commitments on human rights.
Tiger Base is widely believed to be operated by the Nigeria Police Force as a specialized investigative unit. However, rights advocates say its operations have increasingly drawn criticism for alleged brutality and lack of accountability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Situation Room urged authorities to immediately shut down the facility, launch an independent investigation into reported abuses, and ensure that officers implicated in misconduct face prosecution in accordance with the law.
“The pattern of torture and extrajudicial actions attributed to this unit is deeply troubling and incompatible with democratic policing,” the coalition said. It further stressed that failure to act decisively could deepen public mistrust in Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions.
The group also called on oversight bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission to intensify investigations into allegations surrounding the facility and provide justice for victims and their families.
Human rights organizations have long criticized specialized police units across Nigeria for operating with limited oversight. The renewed scrutiny around Tiger Base echoes broader calls for police reform that gained international attention during the End SARS protests, when thousands of Nigerians mobilized against police brutality and demanded systemic reforms within the security sector.
Analysts say the latest demand by the Situation Room highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement operations and civil liberties in Africa’s most populous nation. They argue that addressing the allegations transparently could play a crucial role in restoring public confidence in the justice system.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had not issued a formal response to the call for the unit’s closure. However, observers note that sustained pressure from civil society groups may push authorities to initiate further investigations into the matter.
The development underscores the broader debate around police accountability, due process, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
Sources:
Premium Times; Punch Newspapers; The Guardian Nigeria; Sahara Reporters.
Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.
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