The Federal Government is reportedly considering dropping treason charges against over 100 young protesters from the #EndBadGovernance movement. The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, is currently reviewing the case files to decide on the next course of action.
The Nigeria Police Force defended its decision to arraign the protesters, stating that Nigerian law allows for the prosecution of individuals as young as seven. The police emphasized that they followed protocol in ensuring the protesters’ rights and access to medical care.
In response to the public outcry, the case files were sent to the Ministry of Justice on Friday, where a team led by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPPF) is now in discussions to reschedule the initial January court dates and potentially drop the charges.
Last Friday, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, granted bail with strict conditions. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana has filed an appeal, urging the court to decline jurisdiction over the minors and order the Federal Government to fund their education.
Falana’s application highlights that charging minors alongside adults violates their rights, with calls for the government to support their education under Nigeria’s Constitution, Child’s Rights Act, and the Universal Basic Education Act.
