#EndBadGovernance Protesters Deny Torture Claims Following Release from DSS Custody,

In the aftermath of the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, several detainees have publicly refuted allegations of torture while in custody at the Department of State Security (DSS) office in Kaduna State. This development follows the release of six protesters, as reported by *The Punch*, after a thorough investigation by the DSS.

The protests, which occurred from August 1 to 10, were a response to the escalating economic hardships faced by citizens in Nigeria. Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, highlighted that a total of 2,111 individuals were apprehended during these demonstrations. While the DSS confirmed the release of six protesters, it also indicated that three others would face arraignment.

A source within the DSS emphasized the agency’s commitment to investigating those who exploit rights to commit crimes, stating, “The DG is resolute in upholding the mandate of the Service to decisively investigate and bring to justice those who exploit such rights to perpetrate crime.”

The released protesters, who identified themselves as DJs involved in providing music during the protests, reported no mistreatment during their detention. Dahiru Hamza, also known as DJ Zariya, expressed gratitude for their release, attributing it to the new DSS Director General’s review of their cases, which concluded their innocence. He noted, “We were neither tortured nor starved,” and highlighted the absence of any bail requirements for their release.

Similarly, Isa Abdullahi, known as DJ SP, corroborated Hamza’s account, stating that he maintained communication with his family while in custody. He praised the DSS for their unconditional release, reflecting a notable shift in the agency’s approach under the new leadership.

These statements from the released protesters provide a contrasting narrative to the broader concerns regarding human rights abuses during the protests, prompting ongoing discussions about the treatment of detainees and the responsibilities of security agencies in Nigeria.