Court’s Decisive Action Against Protest Accounts
The Federal High Court in Abuja has freozen the bank accounts of 32 entities linked to the #EndBadGovernance protests. This decision is part of an extensive inquiry into claims of criminal conspiracy, financing of terrorism, and other illicit activities linked to the protest movements.
Judicial Orders Issued
Justice Emeka Nwite ordered banks to stop withdrawals from these accounts but allowed deposits to continue. He presided over the case, implementing strict controls on account activities. The order also mandates the detention of anyone trying to transact with these frozen accounts. Account holders and representatives are barred from accessing funds until the investigation concludes. These measures remain in effect pending the final decision of the ongoing investigation.
Police Allegations and Motions
The Inspector-General of Police filed a motion accusing account users of funding activities that jeopardize Nigeria’s sovereignty. This motion targets those allegedly using their finances to support unlawful efforts. The IGP’s claim also suggests the involvement of foreign nationals in these purportedly unlawful activities.
Scope of Account Freezing
The affected accounts span several major Nigerian banks, including UBA, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, among others. The police are investigating these accounts under suspicion of their role in fostering disorder and attempts to destabilize the government.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Reaction
As the investigation continues, the police are keeping a close watch on the financial movements within these accounts, aiming to trace and understand the flow of money and its potential use in undermining state functions.
Potential Implications for Civil Liberties
This judicial action has sparked a broad discussion about the balance between national security and individual freedoms. As the case unfolds, it will likely attract significant attention from civil rights groups and international observers monitoring the implications for free speech and protest in Nigeria.
Follow us on Socials: