Amanze Chinonye
Amnesty International has accused operatives of the Tiger Base police unit in Owerri, Imo State, of unlawful killings, torture, extortion and prolonged illegal detention, calling on Nigerian authorities to immediately launch an independent investigation into the allegations, Prime Business Africa reports.
The rights group made the claims on 25 February 2026 during the launch of its latest report on human rights violations at the Tiger Base detention centre. The event was held at Carlton Swiss Grand Hotel in Enugu and drew civil society organisations, activists, survivors, lawyers and students.
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Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to Amnesty International’s findings, Tiger Base a police unit originally established to combat kidnapping and armed robbery in Imo State has instead engaged in widespread abuses against suspects.
The report alleges that operatives routinely exploit a prototype ex parte remand order issued by magistrates’ courts to detain suspects for extended periods. While the order typically authorises an initial seven-day detention, Amnesty said it is drafted in a manner that allows for automatic extensions of another seven days, followed by 21 days and indefinite renewals thereafter.
“This mechanism enables police at Tiger Base to unlawfully detain suspects under the guise of ongoing investigation and to impose extortionate bail conditions,” the organisation stated.
The investigation further found that detainees are held in filthy, windowless cells and subjected to regular beatings. Many, the report claims, are detained for weeks or months without charge, while others have allegedly been shot or forcibly disappeared.
Amnesty International said the pattern of abuse points to systemic violations rather than isolated incidents.
The organisation urged Nigerian authorities to promptly establish an independent, impartial and effective investigation into the alleged atrocities committed by officers attached to the Tiger Base unit in Owerri.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had not publicly responded to the allegations.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
