RULAAC hails Amnesty International on demand for police accountability in operations of Tiger Base unit
The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has commended Amnesty International Nigeria for convening a series of engagements on strengthening accountability for police atrocities at the notorious Tiger Base detention facility.
The event, which was held on May 7, 2026 in Owerri, Imo State, brought together families of victims and survivors, civil society organizations, law enforcement agencies, and the media. RULAAC says it was a vital platform for truth-telling, reflection, and renewed demands for justice and accountability.
A statement by RULAAC’s executive director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, said it stands in solidarity with Amnesty International Nigeria, victims and survivors, and all stakeholders demanding an open, transparent, impartial, and independent investigation into the grave human rights violations perpetrated at Tiger Base, Owerri.
The statement reads in part: “For years, Tiger Base has become synonymous with impunity, unlawful detention, torture, extortion, enforced disappearances, and other cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment. Numerous victims who passed through the facility emerged traumatized, physically and psychologically scarred, while some never returned home. Families continue to bear the pain and burden of unresolved abuses without justice or accountability.
“These allegations are too serious to continue to be ignored or trivialized. The continued operation of any law enforcement unit outside the bounds of the law undermines public trust, weakens the criminal justice system, and erodes confidence in policing institutions.
RULAAC therefore joins the call for:
1. A comprehensive, independent, and transparent investigation into allegations of torture, extortion, unlawful detention, disappearances, and extrajudicial abuses linked to Tiger Base;
2. Identification and prosecution of officers found responsible for human rights violations;
3. Adequate reparations, rehabilitation, and support for victims and their families;
4. Strengthening of oversight mechanisms to prevent the recurrence of such abuses;
5. Immediate reforms to ensure that all police operations comply with the Constitution, the Anti-Torture Act, the Administration of Criminal Justice laws, and international human rights standards.
“RULAAC further urges the Nigeria Police Force leadership, the Police Service Commission, the National Human Rights Commission, and relevant oversight institutions to act decisively and transparently in addressing the longstanding allegations surrounding Tiger Base.
“We commend the courage of victims, survivors, and families who continue to speak out despite fear, trauma, and intimidation. Their voices are essential in the collective struggle to end torture and police impunity in Nigeria.
“RULAAC reiterates its commitment to working with civil society organizations, the media, oversight institutions, and affected communities to advance accountability, justice, and police reform in Nigeria.”
