Ex-UK MP Dave Nellist Urges Nigerian Government to Drop Treason Charges Against #EndBadGovernance Protesters, Demands Justice for Victims
Former British Member of Parliament, Dave Nellist, has issued a strongly worded letter to Nigeria’s High Commissioner in the United Kingdom, Ambassador Mohammad Maidugu, calling for the immediate dismissal of treason charges against Nigerian youth activists and the release of all individuals detained in connection with the #EndBadGovernance protests of August 2024.
In the letter, Nellist expressed deep concern over the Nigerian government’s handling of the protests, condemning what he described as a pattern of harassment, arbitrary detention, and persecution of pro-democracy advocates, labour leaders, and students.
He specifically referenced the ongoing trial of Adaramoye Michael, National Coordinator of the Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), and Mosiu Sodiq, both of whom were arrested in Abuja for participating in the peaceful protests. Nellist described the charges particularly treason as “absurd”, asserting that the activists were simply exercising their democratic right to free expression and assembly.
“The so-called legal process these activists have been subjected to from arbitrary arrests to extended detentions and exaggerated charges is a gross violation of democratic principles,” Nellist stated.
Although Michael, Sodiq, and eight other protesters were granted bail in September 2024, their trial resumed on June 25, 2025, a move Nellist called “wholly unjustified.”
“The release of the 10 activists on bail was a step in the right direction, but the continuation of their trial reflects badly on Nigeria’s commitment to human rights,” he added.
Beyond legal proceedings, Nellist also called for an independent public inquiry into the violent crackdown on the protests, including allegations of extrajudicial killings by state security forces. Human rights groups have reported that at least 12 people were killed, while dozens were injured or unlawfully detained during the protests.
“Those responsible for the killings including members of the security services must face prosecution,” Nellist demanded. “Justice cannot be selective or delayed.”
The August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, widely viewed as a resurgence of the 2020 #EndSARS movement, were largely peaceful demonstrations calling for systemic reforms, transparency, and an end to growing corruption, insecurity, and economic hardship.
However, the Nigerian government responded with force, arresting protest leaders and accusing them of inciting unrest. Many were charged with serious offences such as unlawful assembly and treason, prompting condemnation from both local and international rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.
In his letter, Nellist cited support from various quarters in the UK, including a petition on NigeriaSolidarity.com signed by notable figures such as Jeremy Corbyn, former Labour Party leader, and several British trade union leaders.
He further criticised the alleged intimidation of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, who was reportedly blocked by Nigerian authorities from attending the British Trades Union Congress (TUC) in September 2024.
“The continued harassment of union leaders is not only a violation of international labour rights but a deliberate attack on democratic freedoms,” Nellist wrote.
He concluded his letter with a stern warning that continued repression in Nigeria will only galvanize greater solidarity among British trade unions and civil society groups.
“I urge the Nigerian government to act swiftly — drop all charges, release detained protesters, and commit to justice. Failure to do so will only deepen international condemnation,” Nellist emphasized.
The letter adds to mounting pressure on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as international observers increasingly question Nigeria’s human rights record under his leadership.
