Human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, has called on a federal high court in Abuja to throw out the charges against 76 protesters, including minors, involved in the #EndBadGovernance protests. The defendants are facing treason and related charges.
In a chaotic courtroom scene on Friday, several minors among the accused collapsed while awaiting arraignment. The protesters were arrested in various states including Abuja, Kaduna, Gombe, Jos, Katsina, and Kano.
Bail was set at N10 million for each defendant, and while the prosecution suggested dismissing the charges for those who collapsed, Falana filed a preliminary objection claiming the court lacks jurisdiction. He highlighted that, under Section 18 (3) of the 1999 Constitution, the Child’s Rights Act, the Universal Basic Education Act, and the African Charter, minors should not face criminal trials.
Falana emphasized that both national and international laws safeguard the rights of minors and urged the government to ensure their access to education instead. He noted that actions like holding placards stating “end bad government” or singing protest songs do not constitute crimes under the law. He maintained that the charges lack validity in the face of constitutional protections.
In addition, Falana requested the federal government to cover the educational expenses of the minors through senior secondary or university levels, citing relevant legal provisions.
The minors’ arraignment has sparked significant criticism from multiple organizations and individuals, including Amnesty International, which condemned the detention as a breach of legal rights and a sign of the government’s lawlessness. Notable figures such as former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Anambra governor Peter Obi, and former senator Shehu Sani have also expressed their condemnation of the prosecution.
