FG Withdraws Treason Charges Against Minors in #EndBadGovernance Protests

FG Frees #EndBadGovernance Minor Protesters

This development highlights concerns about the treatment of minors in the justice system and...

Nigerian gov't drops treason charges against #EndBadGovernance minor protesters after President Tinubu's directive, citing constitutional and human rights concerns.

The Nigerian government has dropped treason charges against minors involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests. This decision was made official on November 5, when Attorney-General Prince Lateef Fagbemi took over the case and informed the Federal High Court in Abuja of the government's decision to discontinue proceedings against the minors.

Mohammed Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, filed the application to withdraw the charges, citing sections 174(1)(b) and (c) of the 1999 Constitution and Section 108 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. He also requested that court proceedings be held without the minors present, referencing Section 266(b) of the ACJA 2015 and Section 1 of the Child's Rights Act.

This development comes after President Bola Tinubu directed the release of the minors and a review of their detention circumstances. The case drew widespread attention following reports of four minors collapsing before their arraignment, appearing visibly malnourished and unwell.

Key Developments:

Charges Dropped: Treason charges against minors involved in #EndBadGovernance protests have been withdrawn.

Presidential Directive: President Bola Tinubu ordered the release of minors and a review of their detention.

Legal Grounds: Sections 174(1)(b) and (c) of the 1999 Constitution and Section 108 of the ACJA 2015 were cited for withdrawing charges.

Court Ruling: Justice Obiora Egwuatu struck out the charges after no objections from defense counsel.

On November 1, a disturbing incident unfolded when four minors, among 76 protesters charged by the Nigeria Police Force, collapsed before their arraignment, showing signs of illness and malnourishment. Authorities promptly removed these minors from the charge sheet, but proceeded with the cases against the remaining defendants, who faced stringent bail conditions.

However, public outcry over the minors' arraignment led to swift action. The Attorney-General ordered a review of the case, and President Bola Tinubu directed the immediate withdrawal of the charges within 24 hours. Additionally, an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest and detention of the minors was launched.

This development highlights concerns about the treatment of minors in the justice system and the need for greater accountability. The President's prompt response demonstrates a commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring that the rights of all citizens, especially vulnerable populations like minors, are protected.

Additional Key Developments:

Removal from Charge Sheet: Four minors removed due to illness and malnourishment

Investigation: Probe into arrest and detention circumstances

Charges Withdrawn: President Tinubu orders immediate withdrawal of charges

Public Outcry: Widespread condemnation of minors' arraignment prompts government action