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Tag: police brutality Nigeria

  • Abuja Barber Files N1 Billion Lawsuit Against Nigeria Police Over Alleged Eye Loss From Tear Gas!

    Abuja Barber Files N1 Billion Lawsuit Against Nigeria Police Over Alleged Eye Loss From Tear Gas!

    Reported by Fasesan Marian opeyemi | Editor-in-Chief at Sele Media Africa

    ABUJA, Nigeria— An Abuja-based barber has instituted a N1 billion fundamental human rights lawsuit against the Nigeria Police Force and the Divisional Police Officer of Bwari, alleging that he lost one of his eyes after being struck by a tear gas canister during a police operation in the Federal Capital Territory.

    The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, marks a significant legal challenge to police operational conduct and could set a precedent for how Nigerian courts adjudicate claims of excessive force by law enforcement agencies. The plaintiff is seeking compensation for permanent physical injury, medical expenses, loss of livelihood, and emotional trauma.

    Background of the Incident

    According to court documents obtained by Sele Media Africa, the incident occurred during a confrontation involving security operatives in the Bwari area of the Federal Capital Territory. The plaintiff, who operates a barbershop in the community, alleges that he was not directly involved in any unlawful activity when a tear gas canister fired by police officers struck him in the face.

    The impact of the canister allegedly caused irreversible damage to one of his eyes, resulting in permanent blindness. Medical reports attached to the court filings indicate that the plaintiff has undergone multiple surgical procedures but has been unable to restore vision in the affected eye.

    The barber claims that the incident has rendered him unable to continue his trade, which was his primary source of income, and has subjected him to ongoing psychological distress.

    Legal Grounds and Claims

    The lawsuit, filed under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, alleges that the Nigeria Police Force and the Bwari DPO violated the plaintiff’s constitutional rights to life, dignity of the human person, and freedom from torture and inhuman treatment as guaranteed under Sections 33, 34, and 35 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

    Specifically, the plaintiff is seeking:

    • N1 billion in general and special damages for the permanent loss of his eye
    • Compensation for medical expenses incurred and future medical care
    • Damages for loss of earning capacity
    • A declaration that the use of tear gas in the manner described constitutes a violation of his fundamental human rights
    • An order directing the Nigeria Police Force to issue a formal apology

    The suit also requests the court to mandate the police to pay for ongoing psychological counselling and rehabilitation.

    Police Accountability Under Scrutiny

    The case has renewed concerns over the use of force by law enforcement agencies in Nigeria, particularly during crowd-control operations. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for improved accountability and stricter operational guidelines for officers handling civil disturbances.

    Legal analysts say the outcome of the case could test the judiciary’s stance on police accountability and citizens’ rights under Nigerian law.

    “The use of tear gas and other crowd-control munitions must be governed by strict proportionality principles,” said Barrister Chidi Odinkalu, a human rights lawyer and former chairman of the National Human Rights Commission. “When a civilian suffers permanent injury as a result of police action, the state must be held accountable. This case will test whether our courts are prepared to enforce those standards.”

    The Nigeria Police Force has not yet filed a response to the lawsuit. Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, when contacted by Sele Media Africa, stated that the force would allow the legal process to run its course.

    Legal Framework and Regulatory Implications

    The lawsuit raises critical questions about the regulatory framework governing the use of force by Nigerian police officers. Under the Nigeria Police Act 2020, officers are required to use force only when necessary and proportionate to the threat faced. Section 47 of the Act specifically mandates that police must avoid using excessive force and must prioritise non-violent means of resolving conflicts.

    However, human rights organisations have consistently documented cases where police officers have used tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition in situations that did not warrant such measures. Amnesty International’s 2025 report on police brutality in Nigeria recorded at least 47 cases of serious injury resulting from the use of tear gas and other crowd-control weapons in the past two years.

    “The absence of effective oversight mechanisms means that police officers rarely face consequences for excessive use of force,” said Dr. Idayat Hassan, director of the Centre for Democracy and Development. “This lawsuit represents an important attempt to use the courts to enforce accountability where internal police disciplinary mechanisms have failed.”

    Pan-African and Global Significance

    The case in Nigeria echoes similar legal battles across Africa where citizens have challenged police use of force. In Kenya, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority has investigated multiple cases of tear gas injuries during protests. In South Africa, the Constitutional Court has ruled that the use of rubber bullets and tear gas must be strictly regulated to prevent unnecessary harm.

    Internationally, the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials require that law enforcement agencies adopt rules and regulations on the use of force that reflect the principles of necessity and proportionality. The Abuja case could serve as a reference point for courts across the continent grappling with similar issues.

    What Happens Next

    The Federal High Court in Abuja is expected to set a date for the hearing of the preliminary objections and the substantive suit. Legal experts anticipate that the case could take between six months to two years to reach a final determination, depending on the complexity of the arguments and the court’s docket.

    The plaintiff’s legal team has indicated that they will also file a petition with the National Human Rights Commission, seeking an independent investigation into the incident and broader recommendations for police reform.

    For the Nigeria Police Force, the case represents another challenge to its operational practices at a time when the institution is already facing widespread criticism over allegations of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and other human rights violations.

    SOURCES

    • Federal High Court, Abuja – Fundamental Rights Enforcement Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2026
    • Punch Newspapers – “Abuja Barber Sues Police for N1bn Over Lost Eye”
    • Premium Times – “Barber Accuses Police of Tear Gas Injury in Abuja”
    • Channels Television – “Human Rights Lawsuit Filed Against Police Over Alleged Eye Injury”
    • Nigeria Police Act 2020 – Sections 47–52 on Use of Force
    • Amnesty International Nigeria – 2025 Report on Police Brutality

  • IGP Orders Nationwide Firearms Audit After Viral Police Execution!

    IGP Orders Nationwide Firearms Audit After Viral Police Execution

    Reported by Fasesan marian opeyemi | Editor-in-Chief at Sele Media Africa.

    ABUJA, Nigeria — Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an immediate nationwide audit of all police firearms following a viral video that showed a police officer executing a handcuffed suspect in broad daylight. The Nigeria Police Force confirmed the directive on Tuesday, stating that the audit aims to strengthen accountability, track weapon deployment, and curb misconduct within the ranks.

    The video, which circulated widely on social media platforms on Monday, captured the moment a uniformed police officer shot a handcuffed man at close range. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been officially released, was reportedly in custody and restrained at the time of the killing. The incident has sparked widespread outrage across Nigeria and drawn condemnation from human rights organisations, lawmakers, and citizens demanding justice.

    The Nigeria Police Force, in a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that the officer involved has been identified and placed under arrest. “The Inspector-General of Police has directed the Commissioner of Police in the state where the incident occurred to ensure a thorough investigation and that the officer faces the full weight of the law,” the statement read.

    Nationwide Firearms Audit Ordered

    In a separate directive issued on Tuesday, IGP Egbetokun ordered all police formations across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to conduct an immediate inventory and audit of all firearms and ammunition in their possession. The order applies to all units, including special forces, tactical squads, and police divisions.

    The audit is expected to document the serial numbers, condition, and deployment history of every weapon issued to police personnel. The Force headquarters stated that the exercise would be completed within 14 days and that any discrepancies or missing weapons must be reported immediately.

    “This audit is not a punitive measure but a necessary step to restore public confidence and ensure that every weapon issued to a police officer is accounted for and used strictly in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

    The directive comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of firearms by police officers, including cases of extrajudicial killings, intimidation, and harassment of civilians. Human rights groups have long called for stricter oversight of police weaponry and better training on the use of force.

    Public Outrage and Demands for Justice

    The viral execution video has reignited public anger over police brutality in Nigeria, a issue that gained global attention during the 2020 #EndSARS protests. The protests, which demanded the disbandment of the now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), exposed widespread abuses by police officers, including torture, extortion, and unlawful killings.

    On social media, Nigerians have expressed shock and fury over the latest incident. Many have called for the prosecution of the officer involved and for systemic reforms within the Nigeria Police Force. The hashtag #JusticeForTheHandcuffedSuspect has trended on X (formerly Twitter), with users sharing the video and demanding accountability.

    “This is murder, plain and simple. A handcuffed man executed in cold blood. The police must be held accountable, and the officer must face the consequences,” wrote human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong in a post on X.

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has also condemned the killing, calling for an independent investigation. In a statement, NBA President Yakubu Maikyau said, “The bar is watching. We demand that the police authorities ensure that justice is done in this case. The killing of a handcuffed suspect is a clear violation of the right to life, and those responsible must be prosecuted.”

    A Institutional Reforms Under Scrutiny

    The IGP’s order for a firearms audit is seen as a response to mounting pressure on the police leadership to demonstrate a commitment to reform. However, critics argue that such audits have been ordered in the past but have failed to produce meaningful change.

    In 2020, following the #EndSARS protests, the police announced a series of reforms, including the establishment of a Special Investigation Panel to probe cases of police brutality and the creation of a complaints response unit. But human rights groups say implementation has been slow, and accountability remains elusive.

    “We have seen these audits and investigations before. They often lead to little more than internal disciplinary actions, with officers quietly transferred or retired. What we need is independent oversight, prosecution in civilian courts, and genuine institutional reform,” said Amnesty International Nigeria Director Isa Sanusi.

    The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also weighed in, calling for a transparent investigation into the latest killing. The commission’s Executive Secretary, Tony Ojukwu, said the NHRC would monitor the police investigation and ensure that the rights of the victim and his family are respected.

    The Victim and the Circumstances

    Details about the victim remain scarce. Police have not released his name, age, or the circumstances of his arrest. However, local reports suggest he was arrested on suspicion of theft and was being transported to a police station when the shooting occurred.

    Eyewitness accounts, some of which have been shared on social media, allege that the officer shot the suspect after he attempted to escape. But the video evidence shows the suspect handcuffed and standing still at the time of the shooting, contradicting the escape claim.

    The scene of the incident has not been officially confirmed, but reports indicate it occurred in a semi-urban area in southwestern Nigeria. The police have not disclosed the state or community where the killing took place, citing the need to avoid prejudicing the investigation.

    Pan-African and Global Significance

    The police execution scandal in Nigeria has resonated across Africa, where police brutality and extrajudicial killings remain persistent challenges in several countries. In Kenya, the police have faced accusations of executing suspects in custody, particularly during anti-terror operations. In South Africa, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has documented hundreds of deaths in police custody each year.

    The incident also echoes similar cases in Ghana, where security forces have been accused of using excessive force, and in Uganda, where opposition figures have alleged that police routinely engage in unlawful killings.

    The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, based in Banjul, The Gambia, has repeatedly called on member states to investigate and prosecute cases of extrajudicial executions. The commission’s Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders and Focal Point on Reprisals has urged Nigeria to ensure that the officer involved is held accountable.

    Globally, the case has drawn attention from international human rights organisations and foreign governments. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has called for a transparent investigation, while the United States Department of State has expressed concern over the incident.

    “The United States is deeply troubled by the video showing the execution of a handcuffed suspect by Nigerian police. We urge the Nigerian authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation and to hold those responsible accountable,” a State Department spokesperson said.

    What Happens Next

    The Nigeria Police Force has said that the officer involved will face disciplinary proceedings, including possible dismissal and criminal prosecution. The IGP has directed that the case be handled by the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to ensure impartiality.

    The firearms audit is expected to be completed within two weeks, with results to be submitted to the IGP’s office. The police have also announced plans to review training protocols on the use of force and to introduce body cameras for officers in high-risk units.

    However, human rights groups remain sceptical. They argue that without independent oversight, legislative reform, and a culture of accountability within the police, such measures will not prevent future abuses.

    “The Nigerian police have a long history of impunity. This audit is a step, but it is not a solution. The government must establish an independent police complaints commission with the power to investigate and prosecute officers. That is the only way to build trust between the police and the public,” said Clement Nwankwo, Executive Director of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC).

    For the family of the slain suspect, the wait for justice continues. The Nigeria Police Force has promised to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.

    Sources

    • BBC News
    • Channels Television
    • Premium Times
    • Statement by the Nigeria Police Force, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, May 5, 2026
    • Amnesty International Nigeria
    • National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
    • Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
    • Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC)
    • United States Department of State

  • BREAKING: Nigeria Police inspector – General Orders Nationwide Disbandment of Special Units, Announces Sweeping Structural Reforms!

    BREAKING: Nigeria Police inspector – General Orders Nationwide Disbandment of Special Units, Announces Sweeping Structural Reforms!

    Reported by Marian opeyemi fasesan, Editor-in-chief | Journalist at Sele Media Africa.

    In a significant and potentially far-reaching development within Nigeria’s security architecture, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has reportedly ordered the immediate disbandment of all police tactical units and squads across the country, alongside a directive for comprehensive restructuring of the force.

    The directive, which is emerging as one of the most sweeping internal reforms in recent policing history, is said to affect multiple specialized units within the Nigeria Police Force. These units—many of which were originally established to combat violent crimes such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and terrorism—have, over time, come under scrutiny amid persistent allegations of abuse, misconduct, and lack of accountability.

    According to initial reports, the restructuring order mandates an immediate halt to the operations of these units pending a full review of their operational frameworks, personnel conduct, and command structures. While official details remain limited at the time of filing this report, sources within security circles suggest the move is aimed at restoring public confidence, improving discipline, and aligning policing standards with democratic norms and human rights expectations.

    This development comes against the backdrop of longstanding public concerns over police brutality and misuse of power, issues that gained global attention during the End SARS protests. The protests, which erupted nationwide in 2020, were sparked by widespread anger against the now-disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit accused of extrajudicial killings, extortion, and harassment of civilians, particularly young Nigerians.

    Despite the official dissolution of SARS at the time, critics have argued that similar practices persisted under different unit names, raising questions about the depth and sincerity of earlier reforms. The latest directive by the Inspector-General appears to signal a renewed attempt to address these systemic challenges more decisively.

    Security analysts note that while the disbandment of tactical units may temporarily disrupt certain operational capacities, it also presents an opportunity for institutional reset. “This is a critical moment for the Nigeria Police Force to rebuild trust and redefine its relationship with citizens,” said one Lagos-based security expert. “However, the success of this reform will depend on transparency, proper retraining, and the establishment of clear accountability mechanisms.”

    There are also concerns about potential security gaps that may arise during the transition period, particularly in regions grappling with high levels of criminal activity, including banditry and kidnapping in parts of northern Nigeria. Observers stress that any restructuring must be carefully managed to avoid weakening frontline responses to these threats.

    As of press time, the police high command has yet to release a comprehensive public statement detailing the scope, timeline, and implementation strategy for the restructuring process. It remains unclear whether new units will be created to replace those disbanded, or whether existing personnel will be redeployed under revised operational guidelines.

    The Nigerian government has, in recent years, faced mounting pressure from civil society organizations, international human rights groups, and citizens to implement meaningful police reforms. This latest move is likely to attract both cautious optimism and intense scrutiny from stakeholders across the country and beyond.

    Reputable media organizations including BBC News, Al Jazeera, Reuters, and The Guardian have consistently reported on issues surrounding police reform and accountability in Nigeria, particularly in the aftermath of the End SARS protests. Their continued coverage underscores the global relevance of developments within Nigeria’s policing system.

    As more details emerge, Sele Media Africa will continue to monitor and provide in-depth coverage of this unfolding story, with a focus on its implications for governance, security, and civil liberties across Nigeria.

    Sources: BBC News; Reuters; Al Jazeera; The Guardian.

  • EndSARS Protester Freed After Nearly Six Years in Detention, Renewing Debate Over Justice and Civil Liberties in Nigeria!

    EndSARS Protester Freed After Nearly Six Years in Detention, Renewing Debate Over Justice and Civil Liberties in Nigeria!

    Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan, Editor-in-Chief | Sele Media Africa

    A Nigerian protester arrested during the nationwide #EndSARS demonstrations of 2020 has been released after spending nearly six years in detention, a development that has reignited discussions about civil liberties, judicial delays, and accountability within Nigeria’s justice system.

    The protester, whose detention stemmed from the widespread protests against police brutality in late 2020, had been held since the aftermath of the demonstrations that swept across major cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. His arrest was reportedly linked to security operations following the protests that called for the disbandment of the now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

    The #EndSARS movement emerged as one of the most significant youth-led civic mobilizations in Nigeria’s modern history. Demonstrators demanded an end to police brutality, extortion, and human rights abuses allegedly carried out by SARS officers. The protests culminated in large gatherings across the country, with the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos becoming the symbolic center of the movement.

    The situation intensified following the October 20, 2020, Lekki Toll Gate incident, where Nigerian security forces were accused of opening fire on peaceful protesters. The event sparked global outrage and drew attention from international human rights organizations and governments.

    Following the crackdown on protests, several demonstrators and activists were arrested across the country. Human rights advocates and legal groups have repeatedly raised concerns about prolonged detention, slow judicial processes, and the continued prosecution of individuals linked to the protests.

    Legal analysts say the protester’s release after nearly six years underscores persistent systemic challenges within Nigeria’s justice system, particularly regarding pre-trial detention and due process. Civil society groups argue that prolonged detention without timely trial undermines constitutional guarantees and raises serious human rights concerns.

    The release has been welcomed by activists and supporters of the #EndSARS movement, many of whom continue to advocate for justice for victims of police brutality and accountability for actions taken during the protests. Several advocacy groups have also renewed calls for reforms in Nigeria’s policing structures and judicial processes.

    Since the protests, the Nigerian government has announced a number of reform initiatives, including the dissolution of SARS and the establishment of judicial panels of inquiry in several states to investigate allegations of police misconduct. However, critics argue that meaningful institutional reform remains incomplete.

    The release of the detained protester now serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the #EndSARS movement and the ongoing struggle for human rights protections, transparency, and police reform in Nigeria.

    Sources: BBC News, Al Jazeera, Reuters, The Guardian Nigeria, Premium Times

  • Lagos Police Dismiss Four Officers Over Deadly Shooting of Traders at Owode Onirin Market!

    Lagos Police Dismiss Four Officers Over Deadly Shooting of Traders at Owode Onirin Market!

    Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (journalist) | Sele Media Africa

    The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed four officers following their alleged involvement in the fatal shooting of traders at Owode Onirin Market in Lagos, an incident that sparked widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of police conduct in Nigeria.

    Authorities confirmed that the disciplinary action followed an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of seven traders during the operation. Police officials said the officers were found to have acted in violation of professional and operational standards.

    The decision forms part of disciplinary measures undertaken by the Nigeria Police Force to reinforce accountability and restore public confidence after the controversial incident.

    Internal Investigation and Disciplinary Action
    According to police authorities, the affected officers were subjected to administrative review procedures before the final decision to dismiss them from service was reached.

    Officials stated that the command is also cooperating with broader investigative processes to ensure full accountability where necessary. The police leadership emphasized that misconduct or excessive use of force by personnel would not be tolerated under current reforms aimed at improving policing standards.

    The shooting reportedly occurred during an enforcement operation around the busy commercial hub, where traders and residents alleged that security personnel opened fire, resulting in multiple fatalities.

    Public Reaction and Accountability Concerns
    The killings triggered anger among market traders, civil society organizations, and community leaders, many of whom demanded a transparent investigation and justice for the victims.

    Incidents involving alleged police brutality have remained a sensitive issue in Nigeria, particularly following nationwide protests in recent years calling for deeper security sector reforms.

    Analysts say disciplinary measures such as dismissals represent an attempt by authorities to demonstrate institutional accountability, although many advocacy groups continue to push for stronger oversight mechanisms and judicial action where appropriate.

    Wider Debate on Policing Reform
    Security experts note that cases involving civilian deaths during law enforcement operations often intensify debates around police training, operational procedures, and respect for human rights.

    In response, officials within the Nigeria Police Force say they are implementing reforms focused on professionalism, community engagement, and improved rules of engagement during field operations.

    For traders at Owode Onirin Market and the families of those killed, however, the priority remains justice and assurances that similar incidents will not recur.

    Sources:
    Punch Newspapers
    Premium Times
    The Guardian Nigeria
    Daily Trust