The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has asserted that its personnel acted professionally while managing the recent peaceful hunger protests in Abuja. The statement came in response to allegations of violent attacks on protesters at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium by police officers.

FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, clarified on Sunday that the command’s personnel did not use lethal force against protesters. Adeh emphasized that only anti-riot equipment, not lethal weapons, were provided to the officers managing the protests.

“Contrary to speculations, operatives of the FCT Police Command have conducted themselves civilly and professionally. I can honestly state that our officers did not kill any protesters. In fact, no lethal weapons were issued; only anti-riot equipment was provided,” Adeh stated.

However, this statement contrasts with reports from journalists and human rights organizations. Naija News reported that Jide Oyekunle, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Chapel, was detained following orders from FCT Police Commissioner, Benjamin Igwe. Additionally, African Independent Television (AIT) and Premium Times reported that their reporters were affected by tear gas used by the police during the protests.

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Amnesty International also criticized the police, alleging that FCT police personnel used excessive force against peaceful protesters. Amnesty International’s statement on Saturday condemned the violent crackdown and reported the arrest of over 50 protesters. The organization called for the immediate and unconditional release of those detained and urged that those responsible for any use of deadly force be held accountable.

“The Nigerian authorities must immediately end the ongoing violent crackdown on peaceful protesters who convened at Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja. The over 50 peaceful protesters arbitrarily arrested across the FCT must be released immediately and unconditionally. The shocking and unconscionable use of deadly force on protesters against hunger in the FCT is unacceptable. Those suspected of responsibility must be held to account,” Amnesty International said.

The controversy highlights a significant disparity between official police statements and reports from journalists and human rights observers.