Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has taken charge of the case involving 75 young #EndBadGovernance protesters, aged between 12 and 15, who appeared before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Friday.
The youths are facing ten charges, including terrorism, attempted overthrow of the government, and alleged mutiny due to their participation in recent protests held across the country.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the case has triggered widespread criticism, with civil society groups and opposition figures condemning the prosecution of minors and calling on the Federal Government to reconsider its approach.
In a statement on Friday evening, Fagbemi acknowledged the situation and announced that his office would be assessing the case to decide on further action. He noted that while he is unable to alter the court’s remand order or the adjournment scheduled for January, he has instructed the Nigeria Police to transfer the case file to his office and hand it over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPF) for review.
“It has come to my attention that the police have arraigned individuals linked to the #EndBadGovernance protests on charges including treason,” Fagbemi said.
“There are aspects of this case that warrant closer examination. I am aware that the court has ordered their detention and has set a new hearing for January.
“While I am unable to modify this ruling, I have requested that the case file be transferred to the DPPF with instructions to explore the possibility of an earlier hearing.”
Justice Obiora Egwuatu granted bail to 67 of the 76 protesters, setting bail conditions at N10 million for each individual. For those under the age of 15, a civil servant is required to act as surety.
Witnesses at the hearing described the minors as appearing malnourished, with some visibly unwell and struggling to stand. Four of the young detainees were reportedly taken out of the courtroom due to their weakened condition.
The youths were arrested during protests conducted nationwide from August 1 to August 10, during which Nigerians took to the streets to express their grievances over economic hardship.
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