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In a dramatic turn of events, a Federal High Court in Abuja has granted bail to 72 #EndBadGovernance protesters, each to the tune of N10 million. The protesters, mostly minors, were charged with participating in the nationwide demonstrations that took place in August 2024.
Presiding Judge Obiora Egwuatu stipulated that each defendant must secure two sureties, each valued at N10 million. One surety must be a civil servant at grade level 15 or higher, with a verifiable address within the court's jurisdiction, while the other must be a parent of the defendant. This condition has raised concerns about the accessibility of bail for the defendants.
The court had originally set the arraignment date for 76 defendants, but the proceedings took a shocking turn when four minors collapsed in the courtroom. The young individuals, identified as Usman Fatihu (21), Muhammed Yahaya (14), Muktar Ishak Alhassan (16), and Mustapha Ibrahim (18), were promptly escorted out of the courtroom, and the judge temporarily suspended proceedings.
Upon resumption, the prosecution requested that the names of the four affected minors be removed from the charges. The remaining defendants were subsequently arraigned and pleaded not guilty to the 10-count charge, which includes treason and associated offenses.
The 76 protesters, arrested in various states including Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano, have been held in detention prior to the hearing. Their arrest and detention have sparked concerns about the government's handling of dissenting voices.
The granting of bail to the 72 protesters is a significant development in the case. However, the prosecution's decision to remove the names of the four minors from the charges raises questions about the government's commitment to justice and accountability.
Critics argue that the bail conditions may be overly stringent, potentially hindering the defendants' ability to secure release. "The bail conditions are excessive and may deny the defendants their right to freedom," said a human rights activist.
As the case unfolds, Nigerians and international observers will be watching closely to see how the government handles the protests and the ensuing legal battles. The #EndBadGovernance movement has brought attention to various issues plaguing the country, including economic inequality, corruption, and human rights abuses.
The court's decision has also sparked debate about the treatment of minors in the justice system. "The fact that minors were arrested and detained for participating in protests is alarming," said a child rights advocate.
The defendants' lawyer expressed relief at the bail grant but emphasized the need for a fair trial. "We are grateful for the bail, but our focus remains on ensuring a fair trial for our clients," he stated.
The case has been adjourned to a later date, leaving many to wonder about the outcome and its implications for Nigeria's democratic landscape.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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