Security forces in Nigeria have been accused of killing at least 18 people while enforcing COVID-19 lockdown measures, surpassing the country’s official death toll from the virus, according to a report by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
The NHRC documented 105 complaints of human rights violations by security forces across 24 out of Nigeria’s 36 states, including the capital, Abuja. These incidents included excessive force, abuse of power, corruption, and violations of international law.
Among the 18 reported deaths, eight were attributed to correctional officers in Kaduna state, seven to the police, two to the army, and one to a local enforcement group in the southeast. The human rights commission highlighted that security agents had engaged in extrajudicial killings while enforcing lockdown rules.
Security forces have been deployed nationwide to enforce COVID-19 restrictions, leading to violent confrontations in several states. Reports suggest that officers frequently harass civilians, demand bribes, and use excessive force at checkpoints. Some victims have alleged that officers have used the lockdown as an excuse to intimidate and exploit citizens.
Government Response
Police spokesperson Frank Mba insisted that the authorities would not tolerate misconduct by officers. He cited a recent case where an officer was punished and forced to return extorted money. He assured the public that law enforcement would continue enforcing lockdowns “professionally and in line with international best practices.”
Despite official promises, Nigeria’s security forces have a long history of allegations of abuse against civilians, though authorities often deny these claims. The lockdown has intensified concerns over rising crime and economic hardship, particularly in Lagos, where millions of people have lost access to daily income.
With the country struggling to contain the pandemic, the actions of security forces have raised serious human rights concerns. As fear of the virus grows, so does public anxiety over brutal enforcement measures that are supposed to protect, not harm, the people.
