Federal Court Clears Protesters of Treason Charges
The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed all charges against 119 #EndBadGovernance protesters, including treason and incitement to mutiny. Justice Obiora Egwuatu presided over the case, with the charges dropped following a formal request from M.D. Abubakar, representing the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF).
AGF’s Office Steps In
Abubakar, the AGF’s counsel, told the court that his office reviewed the case and decided to take over. Following this review, the office moved to dismiss all charges against the protesters. This decision has sparked widespread discussion, with many seeing it as a response to public criticism of the government’s approach.
Protesters Arraigned on Serious Charges
Initially, the protesters faced severe accusations of treasonable felony linked to their participation in the #EndBadGovernance demonstrations. Their arraignment on November 1 stirred significant attention, as the charges suggested harsh penalties for those involved in the protests against government policies.
Minors Among Those Arrested
Among the 119 defendants, 76 were grouped into the first batch, which included 32 minors, while the remaining 43 formed the second batch. The presence of minors among the accused heightened public concern, leading to demands for leniency and reconsideration of the charges.
President Tinubu Orders Minors’ Release
Following mounting pressure and criticism, President Bola Tinubu directed the immediate release of all minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests. This decision, announced yesterday, was widely welcomed by Nigerians and human rights advocates who had voiced concerns over the treatment of young detainees.
Public Backlash and the Path Forward
The dismissal of charges comes amid ongoing public discourse on the rights of protesters and government accountability. Videos showing minors being led into court had sparked intense debate, underscoring the importance of upholding justice and fair treatment for all involved in the protests.
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