The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has assumed control over the case involving #EndBadGovernance protesters, previously handled by the Nigerian Police.
The protesters, aged between 12 and 15, appeared in the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday, facing 10 charges, including terrorism, an attempt to overthrow the government, and alleged mutiny for their participation in the recent nationwide protest.
The arraignment of the 75 minors has sparked widespread criticism from civil society groups and opposition leaders, who decried the prosecution and detention of the young protesters. They have called on the government to swiftly address and resolve the situation.
In a Friday night statement, Fagbemi acknowledged his awareness of the case, noting that his office requires further examination of certain aspects to make an informed decision. He clarified that he lacks the authority to alter the court’s remand order, which has scheduled the case for January. However, he directed the police to transfer the case file to his office, with the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF) taking over the matter on Saturday.
The statement reads: “It has just come to my notice that the police have arraigned those arrested in connection with the EndBadGovernance violent protest in court for various offences including treason.
“There are some issues my office will need to look into regarding the matter to enable me take an informed decision.
“I am aware that the court has remanded the defendants in detention centres and adjourned the case to January.
“It is not within my power to vary the order of the court remanding the defendants in detention centres and adjourning the case to January. I have, however, directed the Nigeria Police to transfer the casefile to my office and hand over same to the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF) tomorrow, Saturday 2nd November, 2024.
“I have further directed the DPPF to immediately put machinery in motion for consideration of the court to bring the adjournment date forward (an earlier date).”
Justice Obiora Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the 76 protesters, setting bail at N10 million each. Minors among them are required to present a civil servant as surety.
The minors, visibly unwell, appeared frail during the proceedings. Some had to be escorted out of the courtroom, writhing in pain, as they were unable to stand.
All 76 were detained following their arrests during the protests held from August 1 to 10, triggered by the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians.
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