Minors’ Fainting During Protest Trial Was Staged

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has dismissed the fainting incident involving six suspects during their court arraignment on Friday as a deliberate ploy to garner public sympathy.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement released by Force Spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP asserted that the suspects, who appeared malnourished and included minors, had staged the fainting episode to evade justice.

The suspects were among a group of 76 individuals arraigned in connection with the August #EndBadGovernance protests. The incident sparked widespread condemnation both domestically and internationally, with many questioning the treatment of the detainees.

Despite the dramatic scene, the IGP emphasized that the police had promptly provided medical assistance to the affected individuals, underscoring the force’s commitment to the welfare of all detainees.

“The incident was a deliberate and scripted attempt to attract negative attention,” the IGP stated. “The police will not be deterred from carrying out its duties, even in the face of such tactics.”

The IGP further explained that the charges against the suspects, including destruction of public property and threats to national security, were serious offenses that warranted legal action.

“The NPF has rigorously adhered to legal provisions to ensure fairness and accountability under the rule of law,” he said. “The suspects were presented in court, formally charged, and a remand order was issued.”

The police force has urged the public to refrain from making hasty judgments and to allow the legal process to unfold. The IGP assured the public that the police would remain transparent and committed to upholding justice.