WCHR Condemns Human Rights Violations by Nigerian Police Tiger Base Unit in Imo State

The Washington Center for Human Rights (WCHR), a leading independent organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide, expresses deep concern over credible reports of systematic torture, extrajudicial killings, unlawful detention, and extortion by the Nigerian Police Tiger Base Unit operating in Imo State. These serious allegations, supported by testimonies from survivors, families of victims, and civil society groups, represent gross violations of fundamental human rights and demand urgent and decisive action.

Call for Immediate Disbandment and Investigation

WCHR calls on the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba; Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma; Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Abubakar Malami; the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria; and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to urgently intervene. We demand the immediate disbandment of the Tiger Base Unit in Imo State to prevent further abuses. Furthermore, we urge the launch of an independent, transparent, and thorough investigation into all allegations of torture, unlawful detention, extrajudicial killings, and extortion linked to this unit.

Demand for Accountability and Justice

The WCHR insists that all officers found culpable through the investigation must be prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian law and international human rights standards. We also call for the immediate release or lawful arraignment of all detainees held without due process. It is imperative that justice is served not only to uphold the rule of law but also to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s security institutions.

Support for Victims and Police Reform

Beyond accountability, WCHR urges the relevant authorities to provide adequate compensation and rehabilitation for victims and the families affected by these egregious abuses. The continuation of such violations highlights the urgent need for comprehensive police reforms, including the establishment of independent oversight mechanisms to prevent recurrence. These reforms are essential to dismantle systemic impunity and ensure respect for human dignity within Nigerian law enforcement agencies.

Solidarity and International Attention

The Washington Center for Human Rights stands in solidarity with the victims and joins the calls of the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) and over 35 civil society organizations demanding justice and reform. We also call upon the international community to closely monitor developments and support efforts to uphold human rights in Nigeria.

WCHR remains committed to advocating for accountability, justice, and the protection of human rights globally and will continue to engage with stakeholders to ensure that these violations are addressed promptly and effectively.