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Dalena Reporters l December 27, 2025
A prominent Nigerian lawyer has sounded the alarm over alleged human rights abuses by the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, widely known as “Tiger Base,” claiming the notorious unit is operating above the law and putting lives at risk. Critics and civil society actors describe Tiger Base as a controversial police formation that has been the subject of sustained allegations of unlawful detention, torture, and extrajudicial conduct, despite official denials.
In a widely shared video and online messages, lawyer Agu — speaking on behalf of clients and affected families — asserted that Tiger Base operatives have engaged in conduct that “puts my life and others at risk,” calling for urgent investigations and accountability. He echoed long-standing concerns from human rights groups and victims’ relatives who have accused the unit of several abuses including prolonged detention without charge, coercive interrogation, and mistreatment of suspects.
The Imo State Police Command has consistently rejected such claims, maintaining that Tiger Base is a legitimate tactical division of the Nigeria Police Force mandated to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, cult violence and other serious crimes in the state, and that allegations of torture or unlawful killings are unfounded and part of efforts by criminal elements to discredit security operations. Police officials have pointed out that the unit has succeeded in dismantling several criminal syndicates, contributing to enhanced security in Imo State.
Human rights advocates, however, point to ongoing petitions, including a 2025 appeal by civil society organisations calling for Senate investigation into Tiger Base’s activities amid allegations of rights violations and impunity, stressing that the controversy underscores broader concerns over policing practices and legal protections in Nigeria’s security landscape.
The debate over Tiger Base comes amid continued scrutiny of security forces nationwide and raises questions about ensuring accountability, respect for rule of law, and protections for suspects and civilians within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.