The Federal Government is set to arraign 76 #EndBadGovernance protesters before Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on November 1.
These protesters were arrested in various locations, including Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano, during demonstrations held from August 1 to 10, 2024, across the country.
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The protests were ignited by widespread economic hardship, prompting many Nigerians to take to the streets to voice their concerns.
During this period, security officials reportedly responded with tear gas, made arrests, and, in some instances, fired at the protesters.
In a charge marked FHC/ABJ/CS/503/2024, dated September 27 and reviewed, the 76 protesters face a 10-count charge, including allegations of intent to destabilize Nigeria, treasonable felony, and treason, among others.
Among the 76 protesters, 32 are minors aged between 14 and 17.
Among other allegations, the Federal Government accused the protesters of attempting to destabilize Nigeria by calling for the military to take over the government from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The government stated that the protesters violated section 413 of the Penal Code (Northern States) Federal Provisions Act CAP P3 LFN 2004.
Additionally, the Inspector General of Police accused the protesters of unlawfully carrying Russian flags and chanting violent songs, with the intent to destroy and damage the National Communication Commission Office.
They were also alleged to have stolen doors, windows, chairs, cushions, and various valuable properties from the premises.
It’s worth noting that on September 2, the Inspector General of Police had previously arraigned 10 #EndBadGovernance protesters before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja, who initially granted them bail totaling N100 million.
