Insecurity: Nigerian IGP directs review of Amnesty International report over alleged killings in South-East

*The Nigeria Police Force maintains this engagement will reflect the Force’s principled approach to constructive criticism and its responsibility to protect public trust through verified information and contextual clarity

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

‎IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, Inspector-General of Nigeria Police, has ordered a comprehensive institutional review of the 128-page report recently published by Amnesty International.

In the report titled: “A Decade of Impunity: Attacks and Unlawful Killings in South-East Nigeria”, the organisation alleged a pattern of extrajudicial killings and human rights violations by the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies in the South-East region of the country.

‎DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), in a statement issued Saturday, August 16, 2025, in Abuja, FCT, noted that in line with IGP Egbetokun’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and operational professionalism, the Police Chief has directed relevant departments and affected field formations to undertake a meticulous line-by-line assessment of the report.

Adejobi stated this process would involve cross-referencing the allegations with internal operational records, field intelligence, and situation reports from Police Commands and tactical units within the South-East region of Nigeria.

‎The statement also noted: “‎While the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the fundamental rights of all citizens, it is equally necessary to place on record that previous reports by Amnesty International have, on occasion, included factual inaccuracies and sweeping generalisations.

“The current review will therefore be guided by facts, operational evidence, and a dedication to institutional integrity.”

‎Adejobi said at the conclusion of the review, the Force Headquarters would issue a detailed and evidence-based response, addressing the specific issues raised in the report.

“This engagement will reflect the Force’s principled approach to constructive criticism and its responsibility to protect public trust through verified information and contextual clarity,” he further said.

‎The FPRO said the Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to lawful, accountable, and rights-based policing.

He equally stated: “The Force continues to enhance its internal accountability mechanisms, improve training in human rights standards, and deepen institutional reforms in line with global best practices.

‎”‎The Nigeria Police Force remains open to genuine engagement with civil society organisations, human rights institutions, international partners, and the National Human Rights Commission.”

The statement added the IGP encouraged all stakeholders to approach such matters with “objectivity, accuracy, and a balanced understanding of the complex security realities confronting the country.”

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